Aragon Castle

If you were to choose just one attraction in the town of Ischia, chances are it would be the Aragonese Castle. The Castello Aragonese is a fortress and building complex perched on a dark volcanic rock, connected to the old town of Ischia Ponte by a stone bridge. The charm of the place lies in its combination of historical atmosphere and sweeping panoramas: from the terraces and viewpoints, the Bay of Naples, Ischia's coastline, and the rooftops of the old town are revealed from a truly unique perspective.

A visit here is not “just a castle tour”. According to official information, the accessible route is nearly 2 kilometres, mostly outdoors, and can be comfortably explored in about an hour and a half – but if you take lots of photos or stop for a coffee with a view, you could easily spend much longer here. The terrain is varied, with many steps and some steeper sections, so for the best experience, it’s worth arriving in sturdy, comfortable shoes. 

For many, the highlight of the castle is the view. Late afternoon, just before sunset, offers particularly beautiful light, and this is also when the atmosphere of Ischia Ponte is at its most enchanting. On-site, there are two scenic cafés and a curated gift and bookshop, making it easy to structure your visit: there’s no need to rush; you can stop, relax, and take it all in. 

When planning your visit, it’s good to know that the Castello Aragonese is typically open every day from 9:00 until sunset, with last entry an hour and a half before closing; closing time varies depending on the season. According to the official website, the castle is usually closed for annual maintenance between 7 January and early March, so it’s worth keeping this in mind if you’re travelling in winter.

Getting there from Ischia Porto is particularly straightforward: according to official information, the number 7 bus takes about 15 minutes, a taxi takes 5–10 minutes, and walking takes roughly 20–30 minutes.

In terms of accessibility, it’s important to note that the visitor route includes many steps and steeper sections, so it’s generally not suitable for independent wheelchair access. However, according to official information, certain points can be reached with staff assistance, so if this is relevant, it’s worth arranging options in advance.

Sustainability in the town of Ischia – and especially at such a sensitive heritage site – largely depends on visitor behaviour. You can make the biggest immediate impact by arriving on foot or using public transport (the number 7 bus actively supports "low-impact" urban mobility), and if possible, choosing off-peak times when there’s less crowding, making the site easier to manage and the experience more enjoyable. While at the castle, stick to designated paths, avoid trampling on vegetation, and minimise waste (use a refillable water bottle and reusable bag), as this directly contributes to ensuring that the Castello Aragonese preserves its natural and cultural value for the long term.

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