The islands of Ischia and Procida loomed in the Gulf of Naples like the humps of petrified sea monsters. And I was completely alone at the island's edge; triumphant. This is Capri. But perhaps not ...

Angela Merkel, the former German super chancellor, who has been spending her holidays in Ischia for years, had never set foot ...

so the best way to get to Capri is by ferry. Ferries depart from Naples and Sorrento all year, and there are routes from Positano, Amalfi, Salerno and Ischia from April through October.

Skip Capri and explore these hidden gems in Italy for a more unique and affordable experience. Procida, Panarea, Ischia, Cinque Terre, Salina, and Pantelleria offer stunning alternatives to Capri.

Of volcanic origin, Ischia is larger and not quite as lush as popular Capri, its sister island in the Bay of Naples. During the high season it can be loaded with traffic and occasional smog. Isch ...

The Italian island immediately conjures up grand bougainvillea-draped villas and a whitewashed city centre, lined by luxury ...