
Situated along the western coast and renowned for its beaches, thermal waters and a rich historical and cultural heritage, Forio d’Ischia is one of the most enchanting municipalities on the entire island. Here, you’ll find a unique combination of natural beauty, historical monuments and traditions that make Forio an ideal place to discover the true soul of Ischia. Forio’s history stretches back thousands of years, but it was under Greek rule and later Roman dominion that the area became an important commercial centre, and because of this it suffered repeated attacks from Saracens and pirates until the 18th century.
Over the centuries, Forio was populated by numerous monks and clergy who founded several convents and churches, many of which can still be visited today. Over time, Forio has managed to preserve its identity and authenticity, as evidenced by its typical architecture and traditions that remain alive. Now, thanks to its mild climate, warm hospitality and breathtaking beaches, Forio is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing holiday.

Any visit to Forio d’Ischia must start with its beaches, which thanks to their fine sand and crystal-clear waters are among the most beautiful and famous on the entire island. Among the most well-known beaches is Sorgeto Bay, an open-air thermal resort with numerous natural pools heated by ancient springs. By the sea at Sorgeto, there are natural pools with water heated by volcanic activity and beneficial mud for the skin. This area is frequented, thanks to the warm water, not only during the day but also at night and throughout the year, as swimming here is truly rejuvenating.
The largest beach in Forio is Citara, which offers both free beach areas and equipped establishments with all services and several restaurants. Also located in the area is the Giardini Poseidon thermal establishment, a complex set in nature that is renowned for the beauty of its thermal pools, naturally fed by waters from the volcanic island. Citara Bay is also linked to ancient myths and legends, as it is said that its thermal waters were born from the long tears wept by the goddess Aphrodite for the death of her beloved Adonis.
Close to the centre of Forio and therefore easily accessible is Chiaia Beach, with a sandy shoreline bathed by crystal-clear sea with shallow seabeds and a barrier of rocks protecting the shore. Just to the north lies the small San Francesco Beach, appreciated for its well-equipped beach establishments and, being small in size, also very peaceful. The area, which takes its name from the small Church of San Francesco di Paola situated just a few steps from the sea, is full of restaurants serving local cuisine.
In general, it can be said that Forio d’Ischia offers a wide range of accommodation, suitable for all needs and budgets, including thermal hotels, boutique hotels, apartments and B&Bs. The best areas to stay include the historic centre and areas near Citara and San Francesco beaches, from where it’s easy to reach the main points of interest as well as many restaurants and bars.
We offer a selection of hotels at Forio d’Ischia to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Forio d’Ischia, sorted by number of reviews.
If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Forio d’Ischia. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Forio d’Ischia are in high demand.

Forio d’Ischia boasts a historic centre characterised by picturesque alleyways, artisan shops, period palaces and typical colourful houses. The heart of the town is Piazzale Giovanni Paolo II, which houses the Torrione di Forio, now home to a museum, and the Church of the Succour dating back to the mid-14th century and built in Greco-Byzantine style on a promontory overlooking the sea. Considered the symbol of the city, the church has a white façade and its single-nave interior houses a 16th-century Crucifix.
Another religious building of great importance is the Basilica of San Vito, located in the upper part of Forio and dedicated to the city’s patron saint, celebrated every year in June. Built in the 14th century, the church has been rebuilt several times and now features three naves and is rich in paintings and sculptures, the most important of which is a silver and gilt copper statue of San Vito.
Also not to be missed is a visit to La Mortella Gardens, a museum-garden created by Susana Walton, wife of English musician William Walton, who moved to Ischia in the mid-20th century. Inside you’ll find small lakes, sculptures, flowers and plants from various parts of the world, including some rare specimens.
Forio’s evening life is lively, especially during the summer months when festivals and local fairs are organised, such as that of San Vito, the city’s patron saint, celebrated in mid-June. Furthermore, Forio is one of the most renowned towns on the island for its nightlife and is famous for the parties held on Thursdays, during the celebrated “Giovedì Foriano” (Forio Thursday), which attracts many people from nearby locations. In general, the heart of nightlife is the historic centre with bars and venues where you can enjoy aperitifs and drinks, as well as the waterfront with restaurants for a romantic dinner or an evening with friends.
Forio is easily accessible from Naples and the main towns in Campania thanks to sea connections, as the city has a tourist port where hydrofoils from Naples’ Beverello pier dock.
From Naples or Pozzuoli, there are also ferries that go to the other ports of Ischia Porto or Casamicciola, and from there you can continue to Forio by short bus or taxi journey. Direct connections between the mainland and Ischia take approximately one hour and increase during the summer season.
Renowned for its natural swimming pools, Forio d'Ischia sits along the island's western coast, 15 km from the town of Ischia Porto and less than 6 km from Casamicciola Terme.