What are the best thermal baths and spas in Ischia?
If you are planning a vacation on the most famous island of the Flegree archipelago, you should visit one of the spas of Ischia and enjoy a day of well-deserved rest.
Centuries and centuries of history accompany the celebrity of Ischia's spas: are you ready to immerse yourself in the waters of wellness and health?
If you are wondering which are the best Ischia spas to visit, here you will find the most famous ones.
I also put them on a map so you'll immediately understand what they are and where they are!
- A little history of the Terme di Ischia
- 1 - Gardens of Poseidon
- 2 - Thermal Park of Negombo
- 3 - Castiglione Thermal Park
- 4 - Thermal Baths of Cavascura
- 5 - Thermal Gardens of Aphrodite Apollon
- 6 - Other thermal parks of Ischia
A little history of the thermal baths of Ischia.
The properties of the thermal waters of the island are well known since many centuries before Christ, even since the time of the ancient Greeks. A millennial tradition famous throughout Europe and beyond.
The benefits of the thermal waters are known to all and represent wellness at 360 degrees: wellness for the body and for health, wellness for the mind and spirit.
Deciding to dedicate a day, but even more, to visit a spa is a real gift for your health and that of those who will accompany you on this journey in front of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Since the time of the Renaissance, after a census of all the thermal springs of the island, the benefits of the waters of Ischia have been made known to cure some diseases and improve the state of health of the time.
This invigorating practice, if once reserved only to the noble class, since the 17th century has been extended to the entire population, even to the less well-off, thanks to the philanthropic activity of some local nobles.
Thus the first spa buildings were built, initiating a construction project dedicated to factories that lasted until the twentieth century.
In the sixties of the twentieth century, Ischia became a real destination for spa tourism, gathering support and tourists from all over Europe.
1 - Gardens of Poseidon
The Gardens of Poseidon are the largest thermal park on the island of Ischia. Being part of the huge structure of the well Poseidon Gardens 20 pools, 3 of which seawater, whose thermal waters vary in temperature from 28 to 40 degrees.
To complete the thermal offer of Poseidon Gardens, a steam grotto, an area in which to alternate cold baths with hot baths (panacea for circulation) and an area dedicated to the legs and specific vascular exercises.
The Poseidon Gardens welcome visitors not only with the 20 pools where you can enjoy the benefits of the thermal waters, but also with thousands of square meters of beach, a SPA center and 3 places where you can enjoy gastronomic specialties or have drinks during a break with the treatments.
You can also stroll through natural oasis, gardens and terraces surrounded by lush flora and cared for in every detail.
The 500-meter long beach will allow you to relax on a comfortable lounger for sunbathing, for a little nap pampered by the sound of the waves of the sea.
Opening hours and prices of the visit to the Poseidon Gardens
Address: Via Giovanni Mazzella, SNC 80075 Citara Bay Forio d'Ischia (NA)
How to get there: Follow the signs to Forio and then to the park. With the bus line n. 2 that leaves from Ischia Porto and arrives in the bay of Citara.
Prices full day:
Adults: 33 € (July and August 35 €)
Children from 4 to 11 years old 16,50 € (July and August 17,50 €)
Children 0-3 years: Free
Half day prices:
Adults: 28 € (July and August 30 €). Children 4-11 years old: 14 € (July and August 15 €) Children 0-3 years: Free Warning: children are not allowed in the spa area.
Where to sleep near Poseidon Gardens.
Near Poseidon Gardens there are excellent facilities, from deluxe to somewhat less expensive (but which are excellent compromises and are excellent value for money). They are located in the town of Forio.
Villa Loreta: one of the best options for those who do not want to spend much is Villa Loreta, a "guest house" that offers every comfort. Located 500 meters from the Poseidon gardens, it offers free wireless internet connection, a family atmosphere, a sun terrace and simple but comfortable rooms. The nearest beach is 500 meters away.
Soffio di Tifeo - ResortAnotherbudget option, this residence is very popular and has excellent reviews. Simple but equipped with all the amenities (it also offers swimming pool and Jacuzzi) its units are all equipped with equipped kitchen, balcony, living room and flat screen TV. A great option for families and those with children.
If on the other hand you prefer to go more for luxury and want to treat yourself to an unforgettable stay, the Hotel Terme Royal Palm is also the right place for romantics, with panoramic views of the bay of Citara and gardens where you can stroll. The hotel is already a spa in itself with its 4 thermal pools (2 indoor and 2 outdoor), a solarium with sun loungers and a wellness and beauty center with sauna, physiotherapy sessions and relaxing mud treatments.
All rooms are air-conditioned and decorated in Mediterranean style.
Hotel Nettuno De Charme: one of the best choices, if not the best choice near the Poseidon Gardens. All rooms are equipped with amenities, some of them have sea view.
Breakfast is buffet style and the bar awaits you for a romantic aperitif in a truly elegant atmosphere.
2 - Negombo Thermal Park
The Negombo Thermal Park is another splendid spa destination on the island of Ischia.
This park is also immersed in the nature of the island and overlooks the private beach that is lost in the splendid sea of Ischia of San Montano bay.
As for the hot springs, even those of the Negombo park vary in temperature:
- inside the so-called "Dungeon", a path that alternates waterfalls and ends in a volcanic cave, the water temperature is 32 degrees;
- the thermal gargoyles named "Templar" will offer you the opportunity to be massaged by water jets at a temperature of 30 degrees and are ideal for relieving neck and shoulder discomfort;
- three connected pools will allow you to experience the thermal benefits of "Lunch", reap the benefits of water rehabilitation and enjoy a splendid panorama;
- to relax body and mind, a tuff cave with thermal water at 32 degrees will allow you to relieve neck problems and relax at a depth of 12 meters;
- on the other hand, to relieve circulation problems in the legs there is "Maya", a Kneipp path that alternates thermal water at 18 degrees with thermal water at 38 degrees and that, thanks to the thermal shock, contributes to circular reactivation and toning;
- If you want to experience the invigorating effect of a high-intensity hydromassage with sea water, there is "Little sea tank", with salt water at room temperature;
- the Japanese route, "Irrgang", will allow you to act once again on the circulation by alternating cold water (18 degrees) with hot water (38 degrees) walking on a cobblestone pavement; a real panacea for foot reflexology.
To complete the wide thermal offer of Negombo Park you will find a Turkish bath, a large seawater pool, a small heated seawater pool for children, a jacuzzi with water heated to 38 degrees and four thermal pools with different temperatures.
A beach will be waiting for you to relax and sunbathe, while six bars and restaurants will be at your disposal to refresh you.
Opening hours and prices of the Negombo thermal baths
Address: Via San Montano, Lacco Ameno.
How to get there: the park is located in the municipality of Lacco ameno, and is easily accessible by bus with lines 1 and 2 from the municipalities of Forio, Casamicciola and Ischia.
Opening hours and prices: Attention, timetables and prices vary according to the season. See the updated information here on the official website
Where to sleep near Negombo thermal park: the best hotels.
All these hotels are located in the town of Lacco ameno, except the Botania which is instead more distant, in Forio.
San Montano Resort & Spa: if you love luxury this place is for you. One of my favorite choices in all of Ischia, just 300 meters from the thermal establishment of Negombo!
From here you will have views that will literally take your breath away: over Naples, Vesuvius, the Sorrentine peninsula, Ischia and the Amalfi coast.
The hotel (a 5-star hotel) offers a natural sauna, a thermal pool, a modern wellness center and all rooms have private bathrooms and much more ⇒ see reviews on TripAdvisor here!
Botania Relais & Spa (Forio) is another top hotel in this area. Negombo's thermal baths are easily accessible via a road, as is San Montano Bay. The resort is located in a 3-hectare park, with paths among flowers and aromatic plants. Probably if heaven exists, it is very similar to this place.
Enjoy free use of the indoor pool, sauna and gym, as well as enjoy a massage and beauty treatments. All in an eco-sustainable environment, designed to integrate with the environment and save water and energy.
The restaurant serves authentic delicacies and dishes, including breakfast with jams and honey from the island of Ischia. Seeing is believing!
Among the slightly cheaper options, I would like to point you to Dulce hogar, a very nice Bed & Breakfast surrounded by greenery, with simple but impeccable and functional rooms (with private bathroom), a terrace and a garden for relaxing moments.
Villa Baia San Montano also deserves a mention. Another economical choice at 450 m from the bay of San Montano and 450 m from the beach of Il Fungo. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen. Excellent choice for those looking for spas but also tranquility.
3 - Castiglione Thermal Park
Another splendid thermal park on the island of Ischia is the Castiglione, a four-star resort and SPA complex ready to satisfy any need of its guests.
There will be 9 pools at your disposal, each with its own temperature and with particular characteristics to differentiate it from the others.
The Olympic Pool, for example, is filled with seawater for a pleasant light and invigorating swim, and the Nizzola pool, also filled with seawater and located next to the sauna, provides a refreshing break.
For children and pregnant women there is a swimming pool. Perennial, set to maintain 30 degrees temperature and truly suitable for everyone.
For a thermal tour that varies from 32 to 36 degrees we have the pools Dione (32 °) with whirlpool and cover to shelter from the rain, Leukotea (32 °) with whirlpool and waterfalls to tone, Kalypso (34 °) with whirlpool, Oinone (36 °) with whirlpool and cover to shelter from the rain, Egina (38 °) featuring thermal water cascades, Loto (40 °).
In addition to spa treatments, there is the possibility of booking relaxing and revitalizing massages and mud baths, ideal for relieving problems of various kinds, as well as inhalation treatments to alleviate respiratory diseases.
If you need a beautician, here you will have the possibility to book aesthetic and purely personal enhancement treatments.
At the Parco Castiglione you can stay, as in the other structures, refresh yourself at the Olimpo bar and enjoy some gastronomic delights at the self-service restaurant Sibilla.
Opening hours and prices of the Castiglione Thermal Park
Address: Via Castiglione, 62 - Casamicciola Terme (NA), 80074
How to get there: easily accessible both by bus and by car along the main road around the island. By bus, the bus stop is at the entrance of the park and the route is covered by lines CD, CS, 1, 2, 3.
Opening hours
From 12/04 to 15/10 from 09.00 am to 7.00 pm
Ticket prices
- Single ticket (full day): 28,00 €.
- Single ticket for children (up to 12 years old): 10,00 €.
- Afternoon ticket [from 13.00 onwards]: 24,00 €
- Afternoon ticket for children (up to 12 years old): 9,00 €.
Note: There are also multi-day packages that can be affordable.
Where to stay near the Castiglione Thermal Park: the best hotels
All hotels near Castiglione Thermal Park are located in the town Casamicciola Terme.
Hotel Oasi Castiglione: the only hotel located in the Castiglione Thermal Park, the Hotel Oasi Castiglione offers free access to the services and wellness facilities of the park. It offers 2 restaurants, gardens and spacious rooms with terrace.
Rooms are quite simple and tastefully decorated with wooden furniture and light colors. Some have exceptional sea views.
Among the hotels near the Castiglione thermal park, the Villa Araucária Rooms is one of the best mid-priced options. The thermal baths can be reached on foot in about 10 minutes. Rooms are super bright, air-conditioned and have private bathrooms. The rich breakfast is buffet style.
Villa Marinella is a 5-minute walk from the beaches of Ischia. This bed and breakfast features a bar / lounge, rooftop terrace, solarium and free daily admission to the adjacent spa park.
Hotel Le Querce Thermae & Spa: a 4 * hotel overlooking Ischia and the Gulf of Naples and is located in a privileged position 10 minutes walk from the center of the island. It offers swimming pool, exclusive beach with sun beds and umbrellas, solarium, luxury rooms, some with views and balconies.
At Hotel Le Querce Terme & Spa has a wide selection of massages and beauty treatments, and you can relax in the sauna or whirlpool.
The hotel's restaurant serves local specialties and international cuisine in a bright setting overlooking the sea.
4 - Cavascura Thermal Baths
Let's go back to the times of the Greek colonization to trace the origins of Cavascura Thermal Baths that also knew the splendors of the Roman Empire: a thousand-year history and a true tradition of Ischia's thermal benefits.
Caves, waterfalls and jets of boiling water, all carved into the ancient rock that echoes in the echo of history: the thermal baths of Cavascura are a real leap in time, enriched with every comfort and customer care overlooking the sea.
When you decide to visit the Cavascura thermal baths, you will walk among the tuffaceous rocks, the natural caves and the equally natural pools of thermal water, sources of benefit and well-being.
To enjoy even more of the thermal benefits, you will have the opportunity to take a pleasant sauna after a bath in the thermal bathtub and then conclude the treatment with a spring water shower.
You can choose whether you want mud baths with thermal bath or shower, particularly suitable for a duration of a dozen minutes. Then, the muds are also applied on the face, hands and feet, to extend the benefit to the whole body.
It is also possible to book the classic healing massages and thermal inhalation treatments.
A complete offer is that of the thermal baths of Cavascura which, it can be said, has maintained the thermal tradition for centuries and centuries.
Opening hours and prices of the Cavascura thermal baths
Address: Via Cavascura, S. Angelo (Serrara Fontana)
How to get there: it is possible to reach the spa di Cavascura of Sant'Angelo with a cab that arrives at the beach of Maronti and asks to get off at Cavascura. From Ischia Porto by bus (n. 5) or by cab to piazzale dei Maronti and then on foot along the beach.
Opening hours
The Cavascura thermal baths are open from April 20 to October 20.
Hours: daily from 8.30 am to 6 pm.
Ticket prices
The price for a bath in the bathtub is 12 euros. Pay €14 for a 20-minute bath in the tub with all-day use of the thermal shower, sauna and loungers.
Where to sleep near Terme di Cavascura: the best hotels.
The Terme di Cavascura and also those of Aphrodite (which we will see later) are located near the towns. Sant'Angelo and Barano d'Ischia
Hotel Residence Torre Sant'Angelo: another excellent choice in Ischia, in an exceptional location surrounded by greenery on top of a hill with stunning views over the bay of Sant'Angelo and the Mediterranean Sea.
Hotel La Gondola: a 3 * hotel immersed in an atmosphere of absolute relaxation directly on the enchanting beach of Maronti. The hotel offers comfortable rooms overlooking the sea and the beautiful scenery of the bay of Sant'Angelo.
The hotel offers private beach, large terraces for sunbathing and relaxing, 2 thermal pools, natural sauna carved into the rock and whirlpool, restaurant and bar.
At a slightly more economical price, Hotel Maronti offers incredible value for money.
Located less than 50 meters from the beaches, the Hotel offers classic style rooms with full or partial sea view, traditional restaurant, bar, solarium and breakfast with sweet and local products.
5 - Aphrodite Thermal Gardens Apollon
The Thermal Gardens of Aphrodite Apollon are part of the Miramare Sea Resort & SPA complex that includes hotels, wellness center, restaurants, the possibility of numerous sports and, of course, the thermal baths.
Eight pools with thermal water of different temperatures are part of the Aphrodite Apollon thermal complex.
To frame the thermal pools you will find a real park with a well-kept and relaxing vegetation that houses, for those who wish to use it, the Active Bay, a center dedicated to the practice of yoga and pilates.
These are some of the thermal pools you will find in the Aphrodite Thermal Gardens:
- , Arethusa, temperature between 34 and 36 degrees;
- Eros, temperature between 38 and 40 degrees;
- Aphrodite, temperature between 32 and 34 degrees;
- Alkmene, temperature between 38 and 40 degrees.
As for the sea water, the Sea Water pool is the exclusive one where you can take splendid light and invigorating baths.
The Miramare Sea Resort, which houses the Aphrodite Apollon thermal gardens, is a true wellness resort, located in the Ischian hills and overlooking the sea.
Opening times and prices of the Aphrodite thermal gardens
Address: Via Comandante Maddalena 29, Sant'Angelo.
How to get there: by bus with the two lines Circolare Destra (CD) - Circolare Sinistra (CS), both with terminus in the square before the village of Sant'Angelo. By car, starting from Ischia Porto, take the provincial road 270. Once in Forio continue towards Panza and then Sant'Angelo d'Ischia.
Hours and prices
- Full day (adults): 30 €.
- Adults half day (from 13:00): 26 €.
From April 14 to October 30, 2018: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Where to sleep near the thermal gardens of Aphrodite Apollon
In addition to the already mentioned Miramare Sea Resort & SPA which houses the thermal baths inside, there are also other hotels nearby.
Casa Sofia Hotel: 350 m from the Aphrodite thermal park, this budget option offers rooms with balcony or terrace overlooking the sea, free wi-fi coverage and breakfast included.
Apollo Club: located in an exceptional position in Ischia Sant'Angelo, just 30 meters from Maronti beach and overlooking Fumarole Bay, the Apollon Club offers 5 pools with thermal waters, wellness center, sauna, solarium, gym and rooms with private bathroom .
6 - Other thermal baths in Ischia
In this article I wrote the 5 best spas in Ischia, but the choice was very difficult: there are many others that deserve to be mentioned and below you will find one not to be missed!
1 - Romantic Thermal Park
In Sant'Angelo we find the most Romantic Thermal waters, an oasis of tranquility with 13 pools to choose from! But not only: the park also offers thermal steam sauna, 3 solariums, naturist terrace, gazebo to relax with a nice massage, SpaCafè ristobar, aquagym 6 days a week, fitness corner by Technogym.
The Romantica Thermal Park is a thermal park with 4-star resorts. However, the entrance is also open for those who do not stay here.
For resort guests, instead, entrance to the Thermal Park is completely free: in short, it really is the ideal place to spend a week of pure relaxation.
