In this episode of Wander Every Day, my friend Al joins me to dive into the first half of her Italian adventure – exploring the island charm of Ischia and the bustling streets of Naples.

🌊 Ischia: We chat about staying in Ischia Porto, sipping rucolino, taking a boat tour to see La Mano di Dio and the Green Grotto, riding the island bus, soaking in thermal bath parks, and of course trying the island specialty, coniglio all’ischiatana. Plus, we compare Ischia to nearby Capri and the Amalfi Coast – is it the hidden gem worth choosing?

🍕 Naples: From exploring the Catacombs of San Gennaro to diving deep into Naples’ legendary pizza scene, we review Michelin-recognized favourites like L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Gino e Toto Sorbillo, Pizzeria Vincenzo Capuano and Pepe in Grani. We also share a wine-filled stop at Vineria Bandita and chat about Naples’ complicated reputation.

✈️ Italy Travel Tips: We round out the episode with practical advice – from avoiding pickpockets, to navigating Italy’s mix of trains, ferries, and metros, to cost expectations and the best times of year to visit.

If you’ve ever wondered whether to put Ischia or Naples on your Italy itinerary (or if you’re just here for the pizza talk), this episode is packed with insight.

🎧 It’s time to experience la dolce vita!

Timestamp:

2:47 Introduction to Al: Frequenter of Italy, Lover of Pizza and Wine + Discovering Italy without a Car

12:56 Travel Tips: Planning in Advance, Accommodation Accessibility, Avoid August Travel? + General Review of our Budgets and Cost

25:07 Arrival in Italy, Beware of Pickpockets + Every Mode of Transport in Italy

31:53 Ischia: Getting Around the Island with the Bus, Boat Trip Around the Island, Coniglio all'ischiatana, Rucolino Amaro, Thermal Baths + Comparison to Amalfi and Capri

51:37 Naples: The Grit, Character and Authenticity, the Pizza Journey, the Catacombs of San Genaro and San Genaro Day, and using the Michelin Guide while Traveling (it’s not always super expensive!)