Ischia Campania, Italy Travel Guide
Italy has four main mobile providers: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Iliad. Purchase local SIM cards at official stores in larger Ischia towns or at Naples Airport. Prepaid tourist SIM plans offer bundles. Bring your passport for registration. Ensure your phone is unlocked.
Most hotels, restaurants, and bars on Ischia have free Wi-Fi for customers. Public Wi-Fi exists in some main squares or designated tourist areas. Mobile data with a local SIM generally provides a reliable internet connection.
The official language is Italian. English is widely spoken in tourist-oriented businesses. It is less common in smaller, local establishments. The Google Translate app with offline Italian language pack is a good companion.
Post offices (Poste Italiane) are in all main towns on Ischia. Look for the yellow and blue sign. Purchase stamps ('francobolli') at post offices and 'tabaccherie' (tobacco shops).
A physical phrasebook can also prove useful alongside digital translation tools for communicating with locals. Consider Airalo for eSIMs or Solis Wi-Fi for portable internet to stay connected. For language learning, Rosetta Stone is a tool.
Generally 9:00 AM/9:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM/4:30 PM to 7:30 PM/8:00 PM (Monday-Saturday). Many smaller shops close for 'riposo' (afternoon break).
Lunch 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM/3:00 PM. Dinner 7:30 PM/8:00 PM to 10:30 PM/11:00 PM. Many close between services.
Open early for breakfast and coffee, some stay open late into the evening.
Banks operate from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM (Monday-Friday). They close on weekends. ATMs (Bancomat) are widely available in main towns.
Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions close during low season (November to March). Ferry schedules also have reduced frequencies. Italy observes numerous national and religious holidays where businesses may close.
Always validate your bus ticket immediately after boarding. Failure to do so can result in a fine, even if you bought a ticket.
Familiarity with local customs will enrich your interactions on Ischia.
Use 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' when addressing people. 'Ciao' is informal. A handshake is common for introductions. Dress modestly when visiting churches (shoulders and knees covered).
Tipping is not mandatory if a service charge (servizio) or cover charge (coperto) is included. Doggy bags are not common. Ordering coffee (espresso) standing at the bar is a common practice.
Photography is generally acceptable in public areas. Be respectful of people's privacy; ask permission before photographing individuals. Some sites may prohibit flash or all photography. Look for signs.
Avoid discussing politics or religion unless locals initiate. Always show respect for historical sites and monuments. Italy is generally welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers, especially in tourist areas.
Ischia's charming pace invites relaxation. Embracing local customs and being patient with any language barriers will make your journey smoother and more enriching.
