Island of Ischia · West coast
Forio
Open-air thermal spas, legendary sunsets over the Soccorso Church and Poseidon Gardens: Forio is the beating heart of Ischia's western coast.
Forio is the largest municipality on the island of Ischia and occupies its entire western coast. It is the point on the island where the sun sets over the open sea - and this simple geographical fact has shaped its identity: a place of golden light, volcanic thermal springs and lush gardens.
Historically a village of fishermen and farmers, Forio was discovered in the 1950s by European artists and intellectuals - Truman Capote, W.H. Auden and Hans Werner Henze composed some of their most important works here. Today it is the ideal destination for those seeking the more authentic and natural side of Ischia, far from the glamour of Ischia Porto.
Did you know?
22
thermal pools at Poseidon Gardens
12
Saracen towers in the territory
1958
year La Mortella Gardens founded
Lady Susana Walton, wife of English composer William Walton, created La Mortella Gardens in Forio with the help of landscape designer Russell Page. Today they host chamber music concerts every weekend.
What to see in Forio
Soccorso Church
The white church on the headland is the symbol of Forio and of all Ischia. Built in the 14th century, it faces directly onto the open sea with a majolica-paved forecourt. At sunset it becomes the most spectacular natural stage on the island. Free entry.
Poseidon Gardens Thermal Park
The largest and most famous thermal park on Ischia: 22 pools at different temperatures (from 20 to 40 degrees), a natural cave sauna and a private beach on Citara Bay. A full day of relaxation. Entrance around 35-38 euros for a full day. Open April-October.
La Mortella Gardens
One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the Mediterranean, created by Lady Walton in 1958. Two hectares of tropical and Mediterranean plants, fountains, water lilies, a museum and a concert hall hosting recitals every weekend. Entrance around 12 euros. Open on certain days of the week (check the calendar).
Sorgeto Bay
Natural pools where warm thermal water bubbles up from the rocks and mingles with the cool sea. Reached by descending about 200 steps from the hamlet of Panza. Free and open year-round, even at night. A bath at sunset or under the stars is a unique experience.
Historic centre & Saracen towers
The centre of Forio retains 12 watchtowers from the 15th-16th century, built to defend against Saracen raids. The Torre Torrione is the largest and houses a civic museum. The village is a maze of alleyways, baroque churches, artisan workshops and traditional restaurants.
Getting to Forio
Forio is reached by ferry or hydrofoil from Naples or Pozzuoli to Ischia Porto or Casamicciola, then by circular bus. There are no direct sea connections to Forio.
| Route | Transport | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples → Ischia Porto | Hydrofoil (NLG/Alilauro) | ~50 min | ~20 EUR |
| Naples → Ischia Porto | Ferry (Caremar) | ~75 min | ~13 EUR |
| Pozzuoli → Casamicciola | Ferry (Medmar) | ~35 min | ~10 EUR |
| Ischia Porto → Forio | Bus CD/CS | ~25-30 min | ~2 EUR |
| Casamicciola → Forio | Bus CD/CS | ~15 min | ~2 EUR |
* Prices and times are approximate for summer 2026. Check caremar.it, medmar.it, alilauro.it.
Forio's beaches
Citara Bay
The largest and best-equipped beach in Forio, with fine golden sand and turquoise waters. Home to Poseidon Gardens. Both lido facilities and a free beach stretch. West-facing: perfect for sunsets.
San Francesco Beach
A small beach beneath the Soccorso Church, more sheltered and quiet than Citara. Sand and pebbles, crystal-clear water. Reachable on foot from Forio town centre in 5 minutes.
Cava dell'Isola Beach
A wild cove on the north coast of Forio, popular with surfers and nature lovers. Less equipped, more authentic. Reachable by car or bus plus a short walk.
Sorgeto Bay (thermal)
Not a traditional beach but natural thermal rock pools. Warm volcanic water mingles with the cool sea. Free, open year-round. You descend about 200 steps from the hamlet of Panza.