Ischia to Naples
Many people travel from Ischia to Naples and have no intention of staying there. But they’d be missing out.
Naples is Italy’s third-largest city behind Rome and Milan, so don’t just bounce right out of there in a few hours. Although Naples may not be as stunning as the island haven of Ischia, it certainly does have a lot to offer.
Naples is a great hub for exploring many of Italy’s breathtaking islands because it has one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean Sea.
It’s also a fantastic place to stay for a few days before seeing more of Italy.
Naples has been occupied since the Neolithic period, so there is a ton of history. It’s also very close to Mt. Vesuvius and the city it destroyed, Pompeii. The relics of which are grossly fascinating and definitely worth a tour.
If you’re adventurous, you can hike 20-30 minutes to the top of Vesuvius for some fantastic views.
If history and hiking aren’t for you, Naples is also the birthplace of pizza. You can sit by the waterfront, enjoy a delicious pizza and Aperol Spritz, and watch people stroll by as the sun goes down. What better way to spend an evening in Italy? Andiamo!
Now that you’re ready to leave the island in search of the original pizzeria, you may be wondering, How do I get from Ischia to Naples? Continue reading to see which option works best for you.
About the ride from Ischia to Naples
The distance from Ischia to Naples is 34.5 km (~21 miles). To get to the island, you’ll cruise west through the Tyrrhenian Sea.
It is essential to know that Ischia is only open during the high tourist season from June through October. You will struggle to find transport back to Naples outside those months, so plan your trip accordingly.
The hour-long ferry ride is pretty pleasant, but it’s always a good idea to pack some Dramamine if you are prone to seasickness. Even the Mediterranean Sea can be unpredictable.
Pro tip – ferries tend to sell out in advance, so book early if you can. Just make sure to note if the company you book with allows cancelations or changes.
How to get from Ischia to Naples
Options for transport from Ischia to Naples are very limited. Ischia doesn’t have an airport, so the only affordable way to get there is by ferry. Unless you have access to a helicopter, in which case you can travel in luxury and style across the sea.
Ferry
Two companies operate a ferry from Ischia to Naples: SNAV and Alilauro. Both options cost about the same amount and have daily departures.
SNAV operates from July 1st - October 31st. Tickets cost US$30 per person and are non-refundable. You can bring your pet on board for an additional US$5 or your bicycle for US$15.
You should note that the SNAV ferry only allows you to bring one 10kg bag on board as hand luggage. However, it is possible to bring additional luggage for US$6 per bag.
The ferries are pretty nice and have both indoor and outdoor seating. Inside there is a snack bar, bathrooms, and AC. Outside offers views of the Tyrrhenian sea as you approach Naples.
SNAV has four departures per day at 7:10 am, 9:45 am, 13:50, or 17:40. All of these rides take just under an hour. They’ll drop you off at Naples Ferry Terminal, which is very conveniently located in the city. From there you can easily walk or catch a taxi or your accommodation.
Alilauro is the other company that operates boats from Ischia to Naples from June 8th - August 31st. Tickets start at US$26 per person and include one piece of luggage in the price. If you need to book extra, you can add a pet for US$5, excess luggage for US$6, or a bicycle for US$7.
Alilauro ferries have indoor and outdoor seating, just like SNAV, and also have AC and bathrooms.
There are several departures each day. They start at 8:40 am and end at 19:10. In addition to having more departure times to choose from, this journey only takes 50 minutes.
Alilauro allows you to cancel or change your ticket up to ten days before departure for a 10% fee, which is not an option with the SNAV. Because of these additional benefits, the Aliliauro ferry is probably the best way to travel from Ischia to Naples, so long as it fits within your schedule.
Helicopter
If you’re feeling like a rockstar, it’s possible to organize a private transfer via helicopter from Ischia to Naples.
The ride will take about 15 minutes and is sure to promise some spectacular views. Helitaly offers luxury air experiences and is the company to fly.
Considering the length of the flight, it may not be worth the astronomical price tag. However, if this is your chance to splash out and enjoy a helicopter ride, don’t let anyone stand in your way!
Once you tear yourself away from the beaches and sunshine on Ischia, you’ll be welcomed by the rugged charm that Naples is so underrated for. Get ready to enjoy some of the most fantastic pizza and gelato during your time there – your tastebuds will never want you to leave!