Ischia might be a small island, but it packs a punch when it comes to memorable tours. With options ranging from luxury boat excursions to active paddleboarding lessons, there’s something for every traveler. We love how the island’s diverse landscapes and charming villages lend themselves to unique adventures—like exploring caves by private boat or tasting local wines amid centuries-old vineyards. These experiences take you beyond the typical sightseeing, giving you a real taste of what makes Ischia special. Whether you want to admire ancient castles from the water or paddle in thermal pools, the choices are plentiful and well worth planning ahead.
If you’re wondering which tour suits your interests and schedule, this guide will walk you through the best options, with insights into what makes each one stand out. From quick half-day trips to full-day island explorations, we’ll help you decide which experience aligns with your trip goals—whether that’s a romantic sunset cruise or an active adventure on the sea.
Quick Overview
Our list covers boat excursions, private island tours, SUP lessons, and wine tastings—each offering a different way to explore Ischia’s beauty (see all tours here). Whether you prefer relaxing on deck, paddling along the coast, or tasting local wines, there’s something for every style. Now, let’s dive into the details of each experience.
1. Ischia: The Most Beautiful Boat Excursion In Ischia
This private boat tour offers an ideal way to see Ischia’s most breathtaking scenery. Imagine cruising over shimmering waters at sunset, with the chance to admire the Aragonese Castle from below or snorkel in turquoise bays. The tour includes stops at the Wizard Cave, known for its intriguing blue glow, and the Emerald Cave, famous for its vibrant colors. Plus, you’ll visit natural hot springs and hidden coves that are inaccessible by land.
What makes this experience stand out is the personalized touch—it’s a private tour with flexible stops, tailored to your interests. The reviews highlight how memorable the experience is, with one guest praising Captain Giuseppe’s adventurous spirit. It’s perfect for couples seeking romance or groups wanting a fun, scenic escape.
The itinerary is flexible, with options for pickup from five different locations around the island, making it easy to start your adventure close to your hotel. The tour concludes with a smooth return to your drop-off point. Expect to spend a day immersed in natural beauty and fascinating sights, all from the comfort of your own private boat.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you crave a luxurious, tailored experience with stunning vistas and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. It’s best suited for travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with friends or loved ones.
2. Ischia: Private SUP Lesson and Tour of the Forio Coast
For those who prefer to be in the water rather than on it, this SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) experience offers a fresh perspective on Ischia. Combining a personalized SUP lesson with a tour of Citara Bay, it lets you explore the coast’s hidden cliffs and lush greenery from eye level. The tour lasts just one hour but packs a punch, giving you the chance to learn the basics or improve your paddling skills.
What makes this stand out is the chance to discover spots inaccessible by boat—like secluded coves and quiet beaches. The guide’s friendly attitude and clear instructions make it accessible even for beginners. Plus, guests love the sunset paddle, where the sky and water blend into a peaceful scene. The experience is perfect for active travelers who want to combine exercise with sightseeing.
The equipment is provided, along with waterproof bags for your belongings, and the focus is on safety and fun. It’s an affordable way to enjoy the sea without needing prior experience, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself or just want a relaxing paddle at sunset, this tour offers a unique glimpse of Ischia’s coastline.
Bottom Line: Great for adventure lovers or anyone wanting a close-up view of the island’s natural beauty, especially if you’re comfortable in the water and seeking an active experience.
3. Ischia Island Tour by Boat + stop in Sant’Angelo
This 3-hour boat tour provides a quick but rundown of Ischia’s highlights, including a stop in the picturesque village of Sant’Angelo. During the trip, you’ll cruise past Aragonese Castle, admire the Grotta del Mago, and swim in inviting bays. The tour includes a guided commentary—perfect for those who want insight into the island’s history and legends while enjoying the scenery.
While it’s a shorter experience, it offers a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation. Guests appreciate the full tour ticket and landing fees included in the price, making it straightforward and stress-free. The tour is suitable for travelers short on time but eager to see key sights from the water perspective.
The main drawback is that it’s less customizable than private options, but it compensates with a well-rounded itinerary. It’s ideal for first-timers or travelers who want a quick overview without sacrificing quality. The friendly crew and scenic stops ensure a memorable outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re looking for a concise, guided boat experience that hits the highlights and includes time for swimming and photos.
4. Exclusive Elite SUP/kayak tour – Aragonese Castle, the Bay, and much more
This small-group, high-end tour offers an intimate experience for 2-4 people, focusing on active exploration with personalized attention. It combines kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming along the east coast, with views of Aragonese Castle. The tour also includes a break for breakfast on the sea or beach, adding a touch of comfort to the adventure.
What makes this experience truly unique is the personalized instruction in multiple languages—Italian, English, and Spanish—making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers. The guide’s focus on safety, combined with the opportunity to observe marine life and natural thermal pools, makes it ideal for active travelers who want to connect closely with the environment.
The itinerary involves multiple scenic stops, including Spiaggia di Cartaromana and Scogli Di S. Anna, where visitors can snorkel, relax, and enjoy local snacks. The small group size ensures a tailored experience, and the focus on sunrise or sunset views enhances the magic.
Guests describe the guide Giuseppe as “extremely friendly and personable,” noting the thoughtful organization and quality gear. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a private, hands-on adventure with a focus on nature and active fun.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those seeking an exclusive, active day out with personalized service and the chance to see Ischia from a truly different angle.
5. Ischia and Procida: Best Private Boat Tour of the 2 Islands
This full-day private boat tour is the perfect way to see both Ischia and Procida in one go. It includes stops at hidden caves, the Aragonese Castle, the Grotta del Mago, and the Emerald Grotto—plus time exploring Procida’s colorful villages like La Corricella. The tour also features opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and local wine tasting.
What sets this apart is the customizable itinerary and the inclusion of Procida, often overlooked but equally charming. The tour covers a lot, from scenic cruising to cultural stops, making it great for travelers who want a comprehensive experience. The reviews mention how “breathtaking” the views are and how the private boat ensures flexibility and comfort.
The tour operates with eight pickup locations, making it easy to start from your preferred point. The price reflects the private nature and full-day scope, offering great value for the variety of experiences packed in—ideal for families or groups wanting an all-in-one adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring both islands and enjoy a personalized, flexible itinerary.
6. Ischia: Island tour with wine tasting in a typical winery
This 4-hour guided tour combines island sightseeing with the authentic experience of wine tasting at a local winery. The tour includes visits to Ischia’s historic center and the Aragonese Castle, followed by a trip to a traditional vineyard, where you’ll sample local wines and products.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of cultural sightseeing with culinary delights. The guide is knowledgeable about the island’s history and winemaking traditions, offering insights that deepen your understanding of Ischia’s culture. The wine tasting is a highlight, providing a real taste of the island’s œnological heritage.
Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to relax after sightseeing with a wine and local snacks. It’s a good choice for travelers who enjoy gastronomy and cultural experiences and want a taste of Ischia’s wines. The tour’s value lies in the mix of sightseeing and tasting, providing a well-rounded half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food and wine lovers wanting to combine sightseeing with authentic local flavors in a casual setting.
7. Ischia: Private Island Tour with Lunch
This 5-hour private tour offers a relaxed exploration of Ischia’s highlights, including Aragonese Castle, Sant’Angelo, and the Fungo rock. It includes a delicious three-course lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic island cuisine amid stunning scenery.
What makes this tour attractive is the personalized itinerary and the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely pace. Your driver-guide will tailor stops based on your interests, and the included lunch allows for a break to savor local dishes like fresh seafood and regional specialties. The trip appeals to travelers wanting flexibility combined with a culinary experience.
Guests mention the fun of discovering multiple sites without feeling rushed, and the lunch is a highlight for many. It’s suitable for those who want a comprehensive, comfortable experience with a focus on local culture and cuisine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed day that combines sightseeing with a genuine taste of Ischia’s food scene.
8. Tour Aragonese Castle of Ischia from Naples
This 2-hour guided tour from Naples offers a convenient way to visit the famed Aragonese Castle. The package includes a return hydrofoil ticket, guide, and castle entrance fee, making it a hassle-free day trip. The tour begins at Ponte Aragonese and focuses on exploring the castle’s historic towers, battlements, and gardens.
While more limited in scope, this tour provides an insider’s perspective on the castle’s significance and architecture. It’s perfect for day-trippers who want to maximize their time with a guided experience and don’t mind a quick visit. Guests appreciate the smooth logistics and the fact that it includes the transportation and entry fees.
The main limitation is the short duration, so it’s not ideal for those wanting to explore beyond the castle. Still, it offers a convenient and informative way to see one of Ischia’s most iconic sites from Naples.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers based in Naples looking for a quick, guided visit to the castle without planning details.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour in Ischia
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you want a luxurious, private experience, the most beautiful boat trip or full-day private boat are excellent choices. For active travelers, the SUP lessons and elite kayak tours offer memorable, hands-on adventures.
If your time is limited, the shorter boat tour with Sant’Angelo provides a quick overview. For food and wine lovers, the wine tasting tour combines culture with culinary treats.
Lastly, those arriving from Naples should consider the Aragonese Castle tour from Naples, which offers a hassle-free day trip. Booking early, especially in peak season, ensures availability and the best experience.
From scenic boat excursions and active paddling to cultural tastings and castle visits, Ischia offers a wide spectrum of tours. For those seeking romance and relaxation, the private boat trips top the list. For an active day, SUP or kayaking tours provide an unforgettable view of the coast. And for a taste of local life, wine tastings and culinary tours deliver authentic flavors. No matter your style, there’s a perfect way to explore this beautiful island—so plan ahead and get ready for a memorable adventure.