Beyond the Port: Discovering the Soul of Casamicciola Terme, Ischia

 

When travelers think of Ischia, they often picture the iconic Castello Aragonese or the bustling streets of Ischia Porto. But there is a quieter, more historic heartbeat to the island found in Casamicciola Terme.

In the latest volume of my travel series, The Next Stop | Volume 2, I’m taking you on a deep dive into this elegant port town—a place where thermal history meets modern Ischian life. Whether you have a full morning or just 45 minutes before your ferry departs, Casamicciola has a story to tell.

Why Casamicciola?

Often overlooked as just a transit point, Casamicciola Terme is actually one of the island's most storied locations. Known for its ancient thermal springs and resilient spirit, it offers a more relaxed, authentic pace. In this guide, we move past the ticket booths and into the charming Piazza Marina to find the real Ischia.

What’s Inside the New E-Mag?

I’ve curated this volume to be your ultimate companion for an island-hop. Here is a sneak peek of what you’ll find:

• Two Curated Itineraries: Designed for different paces, whether you want to explore the historic architecture or soak in the seaside atmosphere.

• The Shopping Gems: From hand-painted ceramics to volcanic-inspired beauty products, I’ve mapped out the shops you shouldn’t miss.

• A Culinary Deep Dive: We explore the two pillars of Ischian food—the Zingara (the island’s signature sandwich) and the Cornetto Ischitano.

• The 45-Minute Sprint: For those with a ferry to catch, I’ve included a "Quick-Bite Directory" of the best snacks within walking distance of the pier.

Exclusive SNAV Discount

To celebrate the launch of Volume 2, I’ve partnered with SNAV to help you get there! Use the code ANDIAMOTRIPS at SNAV.it for 10% OFF the "Two Islands in One Day" tour.

Note: This is limited to the first 10 travelers and must be booked by May 31, 2026.

Read the Full Guide Online

You can browse the complete e-magazine right now. Click the link below to open the interactive flip-book and start planning your Mediterranean escape:

👉 Read Next Stop | Volume 2: Ischia Edition here

Stay tuned for Volume 3, where we’ll be heading to the colorful island of Procida!

Andiamo to Fontanelle: Naples’ Most Mysterious Site Reopens This April

 

After nearly six years of restoration, the tuff-stone heart of Naples is beating again. On April 18th, the Cimitero delle Fontanelle (Fontanelle Cemetery) officially reopens its gates. While I haven't visited yet, I’ve long been fascinated by its haunting history and the unique folklore that makes it the soul of the city.

A City of Tuff and Bone

Located in the Rione Sanità district, this massive ossuary was carved into a Roman-era quarry. It became a burial site during the plague of 1656 and the cholera outbreaks of the 1830s. Eventually, it became the final home for the pezzentelli—the "pauper souls" of Naples.

The Cult of the "Anime Pezzentelle"

The Fontanelle is famous for the "cult of the skulls." In the 19th century, Neapolitans began "adopting" anonymous skulls (capuzzelle), cleaning them and placing them in wooden boxes. Devotees offered prayers and flowers in exchange for protection or guidance. Today, this tradition remains a powerful symbol of the Neapolitan relationship between the living and the dead.

Getting There: Metro & Transport

The cemetery is tucked away in the Sanità valley, but easily reachable via Metro:

• Materdei Station (Line 1): The best stop. It’s a 10–15 minute walk, mostly downhill.

• Museo (Line 1) / Cavour (Line 2): A 20-minute walk through the local markets.

How to Visit & Reserve Tickets

Access is now structured and booking is mandatory.

• Official Website: cimiterodellefontanelle.it

• Hours: Daily (except Wednesday), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

• Tours: Choose between the official audio guide app or a guided tour with an expert.

• Languages: Available in both Italian and English.

A Personal Note

I’m visiting the Fontanelle later this month to see the restorations firsthand. There’s something moving about the silence of these caves—a place where the veil between worlds feels incredibly thin.

Stay tuned! I’ll post a detailed follow-up with photos and stories after my trip. If you’re in Naples this spring, don’t miss this hauntingly beautiful site.

For more hidden gems in Naples, follow along at Andiamotrips.

My E- Magazine is Out! Andiamotrips: The Next Stop

When I decided to create the series Andiamotrips:  The Next Stop, I knew that I wanted more than a blog or a few videos.  I wanted an e-magazine!  So that is why I am happy to announce that the first edition is online and it focuses on my 2 hour visit to Lacco Ameno in Ischia.  Check it out online here and let me know what you think. 

The Art of the "Slow" Island Hop: Why Lacco Ameno is Ischia’s Best Kept Secret

Two fantasticaaa islands in one day? It sounds like a whirlwind, doesn't it? But here’s the secret: to truly soak in that Mediterranean magic, you have to embrace the mantra of "less is more." Don't try to see everything. Instead, choose a few soulful activities, savor the local flavors, and just chill.

Last week, we talked about travel personas. Many of you said you couldn't pick just one—and I’m exactly the same! My persona usually reveals itself the moment I step onto the deck, and my recent SNAV adventure was no exception.

Setting Sail: Pro-Tips for the Journey

The forecast was perfect—not a cloud in sight. I boarded the SNAV hydrofoil, headed straight for the second floor, and snagged a front-row seat. We pulled out of Naples at 8:30 a.m., and I have a pro-tip for your next trip:

• Sit on the Right: For sweeping views of the Naples coastline.

• Sit on the Left: For the best first look at Procida and Casamicciola.

I chose the left, leaned back, and let the anticipation build.

9:30 AM: Landing in the Cradle of History

After a quick stop in Procida (stay on board—our time there comes later!), we docked in Casamicciola at 9:30 a.m. This gave me a perfect four-hour window to explore before the 2:00 p.m. return leg.

My first priority? Lacco Ameno. From the port, you can take a taxi or a bus, but since the weather was gorgeous, I opted for my own two feet. It’s a scenic 15-20 minute stroll to the right. The sidewalk is wide, the air is salty, and the views are simply breathtaking.

Why Lacco Ameno? Because this is where it all began. In the 8th century B.C., Euboean settlers landed here to establish Pithecusa, the very first colony of Magna Grecia. Long before the Roman Empire was even a thought, this bay was a bustling Mediterranean hub.

The Mushroom Rock & The "Rizzoli" Glamour

As you walk, you’ll see it rising from the waves: Il Fungo (The Mushroom Rock). This epic green tufa formation was spat out by a volcanic eruption centuries ago and eroded by the sea into its iconic shape. I took my time admiring it with a scoop of Gasparotto Gelato in hand—absolute bliss.

Next, I wandered onto Corso Angelo Rizzoli. This street is a dream for lovers of curated shopping. Ever since the mid-century "Rizzoli" era, Lacco Ameno has been a premier healing destination. You can't leave without browsing the local herbalists for volcanic mud masks and thermal spa creams—Ischia’s "Green Island" secret for eternal youth!

The Beating Heart: Piazza Santa Restituta

Eager for a bit of soul, I headed to the main piazza to visit the Basilica di Santa Restituta. It is easily one of the most beautiful churches on the island. As the sanctuary of Ischia’s patron saint, it holds a deep emotional weight you can feel the moment you step inside. If you visit in May, you’ll catch the vibrant festival that transforms the entire town into a celebration of faith and fire.

11:30 AM: The 3-Minute Hop

After two hours of perfect "slow" exploration, I hopped on the local EAV bus (I highly recommend downloading the app for easy tickets!) for a quick 3-minute ride back to Casamicciola. It was the perfect morning—a blend of history, indulgence, and sea air.

 A Special Treat for the Andiamotrips Community

Ready to plan your own "Two Islands in One Day" escape? I’ve partnered with SNAV to help you get there for less!

The Deal: 10% OFF your ticket

The Code: ANDIAMOTRIPS

Note: This exclusive code is only available for the first 10 travelers who book online by May 31, 2026. Act fast and say "Andiamo!"

[Book Your SNAV Adventure Here]

Your Lacco Ameno Travel Directory

Where to Eat & Drink:

• • Gasparotto Gelato

  • Forno Romeo da Elio

  • Onda Blu

  • Enoteca Antichi Sapori d'Ischia

  • Le Petit Cafè cocktail bar

  • Bar Isabella

  • Bar Franco

Where to Shop:

• • Nu' Poco e Ischia

  • Monti Artiginato

  • Sylvie Boutique

  • Naturalia

  • De Vivo Tessile

  • La Perla Nera

Must-Visit Cultural Stops:

• • Museo Archeologico di Pithecusae

  • Basilica di Santa Restituta

Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll dive into how I spent my final hours in Casamicciola before heading over to Procida!

See you in the Piazza!