Giardini Poseidon Terme (Ischia), Italy

What it is

Giardini Poseidon Terme is a large thermal park on Ischia, set above Citara Bay in Forio. It is a full-day, managed complex with multiple pools, terraces, and direct beach access, more like a thermal theme park than a single spring. The park describes its water as heated by Ischia's volcanic system, with spring water emerging at temperatures ranging from 25 to 85°C at the source.

This is the kind of place where you can keep moving all day: warmer pools, cooler pools, short rests in the shade, then back in. It is also built for comfort, with indoor areas for bad weather and plenty of facilities on site, so you are not improvising in the woods with a towel and hope.

Rules that shape the day

Poseidon states that bathing caps are required in all pools for hygiene, and that there is no textile-free area in the park. It also notes that children can use seawater pool areas and the beach, but children under 12 are not allowed in the thermal spa area. Those rules matter for planning, especially for families.

Where it is

Poseidon Gardens is in Forio on Ischia, above Citara beach. If you are staying elsewhere on the island, plan your day around travel time, especially during summer traffic and busy ferry arrival windows.

Getting there

Most visitors arrive by local bus, taxi, or scooter, depending on where they are staying. If you drive, the park lists a large on-site parking area with an extra charge, so do not assume free street parking will be easy near the entrance in peak season.

Because the park operates seasonally, check the official site close to your travel date for the current opening period and any closure notices. If your trip is in shoulder season, confirm services in advance, and plan a backup beach day in case hours change.

Pack with the rules in mind: swimsuit, bathing cap, sandals, towel, and a light cover-up for walking between pools and restaurants. In cooler months, add a warmer layer for when you get out of the water, sea breeze in Citara can feel chilly even on sunny days.

Who it suits

This is a good pick if you want a reliable, comfortable thermal day with lots of choice and minimal hassle. It suits couples, solo travelers, and families who are happy to spend a full day moving between pools and the beach. If you are chasing a wild, quiet hot-spring experience, Poseidon will feel too structured and too busy in summer.

Families should note the split access: Poseidon states that children can use the seawater pools and the beach, but children under 12 are not allowed in the thermal spa area. That can still work well if your group is comfortable spending more time on the beach side and treating thermal pools as an adult rotation.

Accessibility

Poseidon provides unusually specific accessibility information. It states there are barrier-free paths through the park and that, in some pools, there are electric lifts to get into the water. It also lists services such as an electric car shuttle inside the park and barrier-free access to generally accessible areas. That said, it is still a wet, terraced environment, so expect gentle slopes and long walking distances across a big site.

If you have limited stamina, plan on a slower day with fewer pool changes and more time in one area. The park is large enough that trying to see everything can feel like a workout.

On-site hazards

With many pools and lots of walking, the main risks are slips and overheating. Keep sandals on between pools, move carefully on wet steps, and do not rush. Take breaks in shade, drink water, and step out if you feel lightheaded. If you move between hot pools and cooler seawater, do it gradually.

For kids, the key risk is distraction. A big complex encourages wandering, so agree on a meeting point and keep younger children within arm's reach near water. Sun exposure is also real here, you are on a south-facing bay, so sunscreen and a hat matter even if you spend part of the day indoors.

Etiquette

Follow the hygiene rules Poseidon publishes, including bathing caps in pools. Keep food and drinks out of pool areas, and use designated seating for snacks. If you are taking photos, be quick and avoid filming other guests.

Keep noise reasonable. People come for quiet, even in a busy park. If you smoke, use designated areas only. And if you are using accessibility services, give priority and space to guests who need them, the terraces can be narrow in spots.

Do I need a bathing cap?

Yes. Poseidon states bathing caps are required in all pools for hygiene reasons.

Is there a clothing-optional area?

No. Poseidon states there is no textile-free area in the park, though it notes topless sunbathing is permitted on the beach.

Are children allowed?

Yes, with limits. Poseidon states children can use seawater pool areas and the beach, but children under 12 are not allowed in the thermal spa area.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Poseidon states there are barrier-free paths and that some pools have lifting devices for wheelchair users, plus additional assistance services on request.