Aragon Castle

If you were to choose just one attraction in Ischia, chances are it would be the Aragon Castle. The Castello Aragonese is a fortress and architectural complex built 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 town are revealed in a truly unique perspective.

A visit here is not "just a castle tour." According to official information, the route you can explore is nearly 2 kilometres long, mostly outdoors, and can be comfortably completed in about an hour and a half – though if you take lots of photos or stop for a coffee with a view, you could easily spend much more time 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. 

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Castello Aragonese is typically open every day from 9:00 am until sunset, with the last entry issued an hour and a half before closing; closing times vary depending on the season. According to the official website, the castle is usually closed for annual maintenance between 7 January and early March, so if you're travelling in winter, be sure to take this into account.

Getting there from Ischia Porto is particularly easy: according to official information, the number 7 bus takes about 15 minutes, a taxi takes 5–10 minutes, and on foot, it’s 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 is generally not suitable for independent wheelchair access. However, according to official guidance, certain points can be reached with staff assistance, so if this is relevant, it’s worth contacting them in advance to discuss the options.

Sustainability in Ischia – and especially at such a sensitive heritage site – largely depends on visitor behaviour. The most immediate impact you can make is by arriving on foot or via public transport (the number 7 bus is particularly supportive of "low-impact" urban mobility), and if possible, choosing off-peak times when there’s less crowding, making the experience more manageable for both the site and visitors. While at the castle, stick to designated paths, avoid trampling vegetation, and minimise waste (use a refillable water bottle and reusable bag), as this directly contributes to preserving the natural and cultural values of the Castello Aragonese for the long term.