Ischia is only about an hour from Naples, but the way you arrive shapes the first day of your holiday. The island has three passenger ports: Ischia Porto, the main hub with the most ferries and hydrofoils; Casamicciola Terme, on the north coast and handy for Lacco Ameno and northern Forio; and Forio, on the west coast, served mainly by hydrofoils.
Hydrofoil or ferry?
Hydrofoils (aliscafi) are the fastest option: roughly 45–60 minutes from Naples Molo Beverello. They carry passengers only and can be bumpy when the sea is rough. Car ferries (traghetti) leave from Naples Calata Porta di Massa and from Pozzuoli. They take longer, around 60–90 minutes, but they are steadier, cheaper and the only way to bring a vehicle. Pozzuoli is usually the closest port if you arrive at Naples airport by taxi or shuttle.
In July and August, and on summer weekends, buy tickets in advance and get to the pier at least 30 minutes early. Departure times change with the season, so always check the operator's latest timetable.
Do you need to bring a car?
Most visitors don't. Car-ferry fares are high in summer, non-resident cars face seasonal access restrictions, and parking in the towns is limited. Renting a scooter or a small car on the island is usually cheaper and simpler than shipping your own vehicle.
Which port to choose
- Ischia Porto: the most connections and the easiest place to collect a rental vehicle.
- Casamicciola: a good choice if your hotel is in Casamicciola, Lacco Ameno or northern Forio.
- Forio: convenient for the west coast, but there are fewer departures.
Collecting your rental at the port
Many local rental companies can hand over a scooter or car near the pier, or deliver it to your hotel. When you send a request, give your ferry arrival time so the handover can be planned. See the options on our Ischia Porto rental page or compare offers for a scooter or a car. For an overview of the whole island, read the Ischia rental guide.