Getting Around Ischia. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Buses

Operated by EAV (Ente Autonomo Volturno), the bus network on Ischia is comprehensive. It connects all major towns, popular beaches, and many thermal parks. This system makes it a practical choice for exploring the island without a car.

Ischia has two main circular bus routes that traverse the island: CS (Circolare Sinistra) operates counter-clockwise, and CD (Circolare Destra) operates clockwise. Additional routes connect specific areas or provide shortcuts. Ischia Porto serves as the central hub.

Ticketing & Fares

Tickets: Purchase at 'tabaccherie', newsstands, or some bars. Buying before boarding is recommended.
Fares: Single ride €1.50 (90 mins, allows transfers). Daily pass ~€4.50 (24 hours).
On-board purchase: Possible with a small surcharge.
Always validate your ticket using the machine on the bus immediately after boarding.

Hours & Frequency

Buses generally run from early morning (5:00-6:00 AM) until late evening (around midnight or later in summer).

Seasonal Frequency

High season: Buses on main routes run every 10-20 minutes. Low season: Frequency drops to every 30-60 minutes.

Navigating Tips

Use Google Maps or local bus apps for real-time information. Buses can become crowded during peak season.

Accessibility & Major Hubs

Accessibility Information

Ischia's bus system has limitations for travelers with mobility challenges.
Some newer buses may have ramps, but older buses and stops may not be fully accessible.
Research specific routes or consider private transport for accessibility needs.

Important Hubs

Ischia Porto serves as the central hub.
Other important hubs include Forio, Casamicciola Terme, and Sant'Angelo.
Bus maps are available at tourist offices, ferry terminals, and hotels.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Identification

Licensed taxis are typically white, with a "TAXI" sign on the roof.

Fares & Payment

Taxi fares are higher than bus fares. Cash is the preferred payment method.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Apps like Uber are not widely available or commonly used on Ischia.

Safety Tips

Always confirm the fare beforehand to avoid misunderstandings. Avoid unofficial drivers.

Rental Options

Rental vehicles offer flexibility, but restrictions apply to cars during peak season.

Car Rental

Requirements: 21+ (25+ for some types), valid driver's license (IDP for non-EU).
Credit card needed for security deposit.
Local agencies are prevalent. Major international companies may not have large operations.
Discouraged during peak season (mid-April to October) due to traffic restrictions.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Scooters are a popular way to get around, offering flexibility on narrow roads.
Requirements: Valid driver's license (car license often suffices for 50cc).
Price: €30-€60 per day. Helmets are mandatory and provided.
Numerous rental shops are available in all major towns.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road. Standard Italian road rules apply.
Speed limits are typically lower than on the mainland.
Roads can be narrow, winding, and steep, specifically in inland areas.

Parking can be challenging, especially in town centers and near beaches.
Look for blue lines (paid parking) or white lines (free, rare in busy areas).
Yellow lines indicate no parking.

Bicycle Rentals & Cycling

Bike Availability

Bicycle rentals are available, but formal bike-sharing programs are not widespread.

Terrain Challenge

Given the island's hilly terrain, electric bikes are highly recommended for casual cyclists.

Safety Notes

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited; cyclists share roads with cars and scooters. Wearing a Helmet is important.

Walking & Specialized Transport

Ischia offers unique ways to travel that make the island experience special.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas & Routes

Town Centers: Ischia Ponte and Sant'Angelo offer largely pedestrian-only zones.
Coastal Walks: Scenic paths along sections of the coastline offer beautiful sea views.
Hiking Trails: Numerous trails crisscross Mount Epomeo and other inland areas.
No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians, but caution on busy main roads.

Walking Tour Options

Guided walking tours of Castello Aragonese.
Guided tours of Giardini La Mortella for botanical insights.
Self-guided walks are easy with a good map and planning.
Tour buses offer organized trips around the island with stops at viewpoints.

Accessibility Services

Terrain Challenges

Ischia's hilly terrain, narrow sidewalks, and older infrastructure can pose challenges.

Research locations for features.

Public Transport

Public buses are generally not fully accessible for travelers with mobility needs.

Consider private transfers.

Accommodations

Newer hotels and attractions may offer better accessibility features.

Inquire directly.

Water Transportation

Boat Taxis

Available in places like Sant'Angelo.
For transfers to nearby beaches like Maronti or Sorgeto.
Provides access to otherwise hard-to-reach coastal spots.

Boat Tours

Numerous companies offer circumnavigation tours of the island.
Tours often include swimming stops in secluded coves.
Visits to grottoes like Grotta del Mago or Grotta Verde.

Unique Local Transport Notes

Ischia does not have cable cars or funiculars.
The main forms of specialized transport are local tour buses.
Boat taxis offer an unique coastal travel experience.
Consider renting a scooter for exploring the island if you are comfortable riding.

A scooter offers freedom to discover hidden spots.
It provides a fun way to navigate Ischia's winding roads.
This choice of transport aids smooth movement.
Ischia's transport options cater to various preferences and budgets.

Walking & Cycling Accessibility

Ischia's diverse landscapes offer plenty for pedestrians and cyclists.

Walking Routes

Ischia Ponte features pedestrianized areas around the castle.
Sant'Angelo is a largely pedestrian-only village.
Forio's historical center offers pleasant walking.
Self-guided walks are simple with a good map.

Cycling Information

Bicycle rentals are available.
Given the hilly terrain, electric bikes are highly recommended.
Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited; cyclists share roads with vehicles.
Wearing a helmet and awareness of traffic is important.

Accessibility Considerations

Hilly Terrain

Ischia's terrain and narrow sidewalks make mobility challenging for some.

Older infrastructure exists.
Historic centers have limitations.
Planning routes aids navigation.

Public Transport Issues

Public buses may not be fully accessible for mobility needs.

Some newer buses have ramps.
Many bus stops are not adapted.
Private transfers may offer ease.

Hotel & Attraction Access

Newer hotels and attractions offer better accessibility features.

Research specific locations.
Inquire about features directly.
Confirm before booking.

Transport Considerations

Traffic & Congestion

Island roads can be narrow and winding.
Peak season traffic can be dense.
Scooters navigate easier than cars.

Safety Awareness

Watch for pedestrians and other vehicles.
Adjust to local driving style.
Stay alert, especially on busy routes.

Final Transportation Thought

Whether you prefer the affordability of public buses, the convenience of taxis, the freedom of a scooter, or the unique perspective of a boat tour, you will find a way to explore every corner of this beautiful island.

Consider your planned itinerary, the season of your visit, and your personal needs to create a suitable transport approach. Many items are available for purchase on the island, especially in Ischia Porto and Forio.

Getting Around Ischia