What to See in Casamicciola Terme: 7 Must-Visit Places

Casamicciola Terme, located on the northern coast of the island of Ischia, represents the beating heart of Italian spa tourism. With a history dating back to 1610, when Italy’s first charitable spa was founded, this charming town offers a cultural, natural, and thermal heritage unlike any other in the world.

Casamicciola’s uniqueness lies in its strategic location: it is the only town on the island bordering all the other municipalities, making it the ideal starting point for exploring every corner of Ischia. From historic spas to pristine beaches, from the trails of Mount Epomeo to seaside villages, here are seven places you absolutely can’t miss during your visit.

1 – Castiglione Thermal Park: an oasis of well-being

Castiglione Thermal Park represents one of Ischia’s most comprehensive spa experiences. This evocative spa complex, built directly on the historic Gurgitiello spring, offers ten thermal pools at different temperatures, ranging from 28°C to 40°C.

The uniqueness of this park lies in its panoramic location: while relaxing in the healing waters, you can admire a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. The waters of Castiglione are particularly rich in mineral salts and have recognized therapeutic properties for the treatment of rheumatic, dermatological, and respiratory conditions.

The park also features a private beach, restaurants, and wellness services, making it perfect for a full day of relaxation. Admission costs approximately €28 and includes access to all pools and the beach.

2 La Rita Spring: the historic thermal heart
At the foot of Mount Epomeo, in the small valley known as “Cava la Rita,” one of the oldest and most prized thermal springs in Italy gushes forth. La Rita Spring, owned by the family that has managed Villa Sirena since 1700, represents a unique thermal heritage due to its exceptional therapeutic properties.

The bicarbonate-sulphate-sodium waters of Rita spring at a temperature above 60°C (140°F) and are particularly suitable for dermatological, respiratory, and rheumatic treatments. Legend has it that these waters possess miraculous properties, attracting illustrious figures such as Toscanini and Garibaldi over the centuries.

Currently, due to the 2017 earthquake, direct access to the spring is limited, but its waters continue to feed the local spas and are used to produce natural thermal cosmetics.

3 Piazza Marina: the beating heart of the town
Piazza Marina represents the nerve center of Casamicciola Terme, a place where history and modernity harmoniously meet. This elegant pedestrian square, rebuilt after the 1883 earthquake, is surrounded by historic cafés, traditional restaurants, and local boutiques.

The square overlooks the tourist port, where hydrofoils and ferries from Naples and the other islands in the Gulf dock. During summer evenings, Piazza Marina comes alive with cultural events, concerts, and shows, becoming a favorite meeting place for both tourists and locals.

Don’t miss a stop at Bar Calise, a local institution founded in 1949, famous for its traditional pastries and artisanal limoncello. From here, you can also admire the sunset over the Gulf of Naples, a natural spectacle of rare beauty.

4 Bosco della Maddalena: Unspoiled Nature
Behind Casamicciola lies the evocative Bosco della Maddalena, a green lung of over 50 hectares that represents one of the island’s richest ecosystems. This forest of maritime pines and holm oaks offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels of fitness.

The forest is characterized by the presence of numerous fumaroles and natural hot springs, evidence of the still-present volcanic activity. While walking, it’s not uncommon to encounter small clouds of sulfurous vapor rising from the ground, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

The area is also famous for the wild Ischian rabbit, a native species that is a key ingredient in traditional local cuisine. Forest trails lead to Mount Epomeo and offer spectacular views of the entire island.

5 Mount Epomeo Trail: Hiking with a View

Casamicciola is one of the best starting points for reaching the summit of Mount Epomeo, the highest peak on Ischia, rising 789 meters above sea level. The trail, starting from the town center, passes through breathtaking landscapes, from Mediterranean scrub to terraced vineyards, all the way to the lunar landscapes of the summit.

The climb requires about two hours of moderate walking and passes through areas of great geological interest, where you can observe the characteristic green tuff of Mount Epomeo. Once you reach the summit, the 360-degree view extends from the Pontine Islands to the Amalfi Coast, from Vesuvius to the Phlegraean Fields.

At the summit is the ancient Hermitage of San Nicola, a small church carved into the tuff rock, and a quaint restaurant where you can enjoy local specialties while admiring the view. The return journey can be made following alternative trails leading to Forio or Fontana.

6 Terme Belliazzi: History and Tradition

The Terme Belliazzi is Ischia’s oldest spa, built directly on the historic Gurgitiello spring. Founded in the 19th century, these spas have hosted illustrious figures from European nobility and the world of art over the decades.

The facility retains its period charm, with elegant Art Nouveau rooms and treatments that follow Ischia’s ancient spa traditions. The Gurgitiello waters, which flow at temperatures between 64°C and 85°C, are particularly suitable for treating rheumatic, dermatological, and respiratory conditions.

The Terme Belliazzi offers a wide range of treatments, from thermal baths to medicinal mud baths, from inhalations to therapeutic massages. The facility also has a medical department specializing in thermal medicine.

Geophysical Observatory: Science and Panorama

Located in the upper part of Casamicciola, the Geophysical Observatory is a unique scientific and panoramic site. Founded in 1902 by Giulio Grablovitz, this research center was one of the first in the world dedicated to the study of seismic and volcanic phenomena.

The observatory, although currently used primarily as an archive, preserves period scientific instruments of great historical value. Its privileged location offers an exceptional panoramic view of the entire Gulf of Naples and is an ideal vantage point for understanding the island’s volcanic geology.

On clear days, from the observatory terrace, you can simultaneously admire Capri, Mount Vesuvius, the Phlegraean Fields, and the Pontine Islands—a natural spectacle that alone makes the visit worthwhile.

Practical tips for your visit

Casamicciola Terme is easily reached by ferry or hydrofoil from the port of Naples, with regular connections year-round. The port of Casamicciola offers tourist reception services and local bus connections to all points of interest.

To best visit these seven must-see sites, we recommend planning at least 2-3 days, choosing accommodations in the town center so you can easily explore on foot. Spring and autumn are the ideal times to visit, when the weather is mild and the trails are most enjoyable.

Casamicciola Terme awaits you to help you discover a region where nature, history, and wellness blend together in an unforgettable experience, in the heart of Italy’s oldest spa district.