Ischia

Ischia is 18 mi/29 km southwest of Naples, in the Bay of Naples. Ischia is probably best known for its hot springs and spas : A day at the Poseidon Gardens spa, with its multiple pools of varying temperatures, may be just the thing to soothe a weary traveler. Ischia also has some charming towns, including Ischia Ponte, located just below an Aragonese castle, which has lots of pleasant shops selling ceramics and clothing. A hike up the spent volcano Monte Epomeo will reward you with a breathtaking view: You can visit see as far away as the islands of Ventotene and Ponza. Another sight worth seeing is the beautiful Santa Maria di Loreto church. Don't miss the sleepy nearby island of Procida: Linger in a harborside cafe and watch the boats come in at the fishing village of Coricella, where much of the film Il Postino was shot. Elsewhere on the island, you can visit Vivara, a nature preserve that served as hunting grounds for royalty.