A Family Adventure on Ischia
Ischia is a wonderful destination for families, and renting a car makes it easy to explore with children in tow. From sandy beaches with shallow water to thermal parks with dedicated kids’ pools, the island offers a wealth of child-friendly experiences. This itinerary covers eight stops that will keep the whole family entertained, all comfortably reached by car with ample parking.
1. Spiaggia dei Pescatori — Safe Shallow Waters
Start your family day at Spiaggia dei Pescatori in Ischia Porto, a sheltered beach where the water stays shallow for many metres. The gentle sandy bottom is perfect for toddlers and young children to paddle safely. Several beachside cafés offer light meals and gelato, and there are clean changing facilities. The car park on Via Iasolino is just a two-minute walk away.
2. Castello Aragonese — A Real Castle to Explore
What child doesn’t dream of exploring a real medieval castle? The Castello Aragonese at Ischia Ponte is connected to the island by a stone causeway and features towers, tunnels, and panoramic terraces that will fire young imaginations. There’s a lift inside the rock to reach the upper levels, making it accessible even with pushchairs for part of the route. Allow at least an hour for the visit.
3. Giardini Ravino — A Cactus Wonderland
Located in Forio, Giardini Ravino is a botanical garden specialising in cacti and succulents from around the world. Children love the strange shapes and sizes of the plants, and the garden’s paths are easy to navigate with a pushchair. There’s a small café serving organic juices and snacks. Free parking is available right at the entrance.
4. Poseidon Thermal Gardens — Family Spa Day
The famous Poseidon Gardens in Forio features over 20 pools at varying temperatures, including a dedicated children’s pool with warm, gentle water. The park is set in a beautiful bay, so you can alternate between the thermal pools and the sea. Families with older children can enjoy the natural sauna cave. Ample car parking is available on-site.
5. Spiaggia dei Maronti — Build Sandcastles on Warm Sand
The longest beach on the island, Maronti is famous for its naturally warm volcanic sand — children are fascinated when they dig and find the sand gets hotter below the surface. The beach is wide enough that even in summer there’s space for games and sandcastle building. Drive down the scenic road from Barano and park at the western end of the beach.
6. Boat Trip from Sant’Angelo — Mini Maritime Adventure
Park your car above Sant’Angelo village and walk down to the little harbour, where colourful water taxis offer short trips along the coast. Children love the excitement of a boat ride, and the journey to Maronti or the Fumarole area takes just 10 minutes. It’s a simple but memorable experience that adds a sense of adventure to the day.
7. Pizzeria Hopping — Let Kids Choose Their Favourite
Ischia’s pizzerias are legendary, and children are always happy with pizza. Make a game of it — try a different pizzeria each day and let the kids rate them. Da Pasqualino in Ischia Ponte, Ristorante Il Focolare in Barano (where pizza is baked in a volcanic stone oven), and Da Ciccio in Forio are all family-friendly with outdoor seating.
8. Giardini La Mortella — Musical Garden Adventures
Created by the wife of British composer William Walton, La Mortella in Forio is one of Italy’s most beautiful gardens. The tropical and Mediterranean plants are stunning, but what makes it special for families are the weekend concerts and the Thai-inspired water garden that delights children of all ages. The upper garden involves a climb but rewards with spectacular views across the island.
Practical Tips for Driving with Kids
We provide child seats and booster seats free of charge with our car rentals — just request them when booking. Ischia’s roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, so drive at a relaxed pace. Most attractions have nearby parking, though in summer it’s wise to arrive before 10 AM to secure a spot. Keep snacks and water in the car, and remember that the island’s numerous pharmacies are well-stocked for any family emergency.