Punta Imperatore Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, offering unparalleled views and a magical escape on Ischia's coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the magical sunset
Punta Imperatore Lighthouse
Best Time
Catch the magical sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic lighthouse transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, offering unparalleled views and a magical escape on Ischia's coast.
"This is quite possibly the most beautiful place we have ever seen."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many steps involved! Pack good walking shoes for exploring.
🌅 Book Sunset Aperitif
Don't miss the golden hour! Reserve your spot for a magical experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Lighthouse Tower
Punta Imperatore
An iconic structure offering unparalleled views of the Gulf of Naples and beyond.
Rooftop Sunset Aperitif
Rooftop Terrace
Sip cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Historic Guardian's Tale
Lighthouse Interior
Learn about Lucia, the lighthouse's first guardian, and the history of this maritime beacon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Steps
Sunset Magic & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many steps involved! Pack good walking shoes for exploring.
🌅 Book Sunset Aperitif
Don't miss the golden hour! Reserve your spot for a magical experience.
🍽️ Dinner Reservations
Highly recommended for an unforgettable dining experience. +1
🚗 Taxi Drop-off Point
Taxis don't go all the way; expect a short, leisurely walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many steps involved! Pack good walking shoes for exploring.
🌅 Book Sunset Aperitif
Don't miss the golden hour! Reserve your spot for a magical experience.
🍽️ Dinner Reservations
Highly recommended for an unforgettable dining experience. +1
🚗 Taxi Drop-off Point
Taxis don't go all the way; expect a short, leisurely walk.
✨ Embrace the Tranquility
Enjoy the peace and quiet, a true escape from the everyday.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Punta Imperatore Lighthouse is lauded as one of the most beautiful and special places, offering a luxurious and tranquil retreat with stunning views and exceptional service. However, some guests found the access challenging due to numerous steps and experienced issues with communication and room views, leading to a perception of poor value for money for some.
"This is quite possibly the most beautiful place we have ever seen. We stayed 3 nights during our honeymoon and it blew us away. The staff’s attentiveness and kindness was what really made the experience (aside from the stunning views). We hope to come back some day and visit Faro Punta Imperatore. What a beautiful and special place!"
Aubrey Boland
"It’s incredible how much attention to detail went into the restoration of the lighthouse. The view is truly special. Excellent, courteous, and attentive service — the room was very beautiful and modern. Paolo’s welcome tour was warm and full of detail. Dinner at the restaurant is also highly recommended. Whether for a special occasion or simply to relax, we can highly recommend the hotel. That said, I wouldn’t want to climb up and down to the lighthouse more than twice a day!"
William Laubersheimer
"Maybe the most special place on this special island. You have to be able to decend (and climb) a few stairs (the taxi does not make it all the way to the faro) but your luggage is transported with a small funiculare, so it‘s basically a leisurley walk down. From there on, the views are breathtaking and a part from (very fee) fellow guests and the always helpful staff, its all yours. View across the ocean, another outlier island (visibility permitting), the occasional cruise or yacht ship far out and - at night - the lighthouse‘s beam, moving you back to times before GPS and satellites. There ist everything in the spacious rooms that‘s needed, the bathrooms are a bit small and one room does not have a front view. But that‘s fine. There‘s no AirCon, but that would be out of place anyway, the lighthouse keepers of the past did not have that either. So enjoy the tranquility, the excellent food and the breathtaking view outside at breakfast."
N B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is located on the island of Ischia. You can reach Ischia by ferry from Naples (approx. 1.5 hours). From the ferry port, you can take a taxi or bus towards Forio and then to Punta Imperatore. Be aware that taxis cannot reach the lighthouse directly; you'll need to walk the remaining steps.
Yes, there are many steps involved in reaching the lighthouse from the drop-off point. While luggage can be transported via a small funicular, comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the terrain. +1
No, private vehicles cannot reach the lighthouse itself due to the steep and narrow path. Taxis will drop you off at a designated point, and you will need to walk the rest of the way.
From Forio, you can take a local bus or a taxi towards Panza and then follow signs for Punta Imperatore. The final approach involves a walk down many steps.
Due to the numerous steps and uneven terrain, the lighthouse may not be easily accessible for individuals with mobility issues. Luggage assistance is available via funicular.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and enjoying the views typically does not require a separate ticket, especially if you are not staying at the hotel. However, access to specific areas like the rooftop bar or restaurant will involve purchases.
The lighthouse grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific hours for the hotel, restaurant, and rooftop bar may vary, so it's advisable to check their official channels.
Yes, Punta Imperatore Lighthouse has been transformed into a unique boutique hotel with several rooms. Booking well in advance is highly recommended due to its popularity.
Yes, the sunset aperitif on the rooftop terrace is a paid experience, offering a premium view and atmosphere. It's recommended to book in advance.
Stays typically include accommodation in beautifully restored rooms, access to common areas, and often breakfast. Some packages may include dining experiences or guided tours. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, learn about the lighthouse's history, experience a magical sunset from the rooftop, and dine at the fine dining restaurant.
Absolutely! The stunning views, unique accommodation, and magical sunsets make it an incredibly romantic destination, perfect for couples.
Expect sweeping vistas of the Gulf of Naples, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and neighboring islands. The sunset views are particularly spectacular.
Some guests mention receiving a warm welcome tour with detailed information about the lighthouse's history and restoration.
The atmosphere is described as tranquil, luxurious, and magical, offering a unique escape with stunning natural beauty and attentive service.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a fine dining restaurant at the lighthouse, offering an exceptional culinary experience with stunning views.
The food is highly praised, with guests recommending it for special occasions. The service is also noted as exceptional. +1
Yes, there is a rooftop bar that serves exclusive aperitifs, especially popular during sunset.
Breakfast is typically included for hotel guests and can be enjoyed with breathtaking views, though sometimes it's served indoors due to wasps.
While the lighthouse offers a unique dining experience, there are other restaurants and trattorias in the nearby towns of Forio and Panza if you prefer more casual options.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself, the panoramic sea views, and especially the sunset from the rooftop terrace offer incredible photo opportunities. Drone shots are also popular.
Late afternoon leading into sunset provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. The golden hour is particularly stunning.
Drone photography is popular here, capturing the lighthouse and its dramatic coastal setting from above. Ensure you are aware of any local drone regulations.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permissions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details of the coastline or distant islands. A tripod is helpful for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours to explore the grounds safely. While the rooftop parties are for adults, the daytime views and the novelty of staying in a lighthouse could be an adventure for older kids. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities might be limited during your exploration.
💖 Couples and Honeymooners
Booking a stay at the lighthouse hotel or enjoying a sunset aperitif and dinner at the restaurant are highly recommended for a truly magical experience. The privacy and exclusivity of the location add to its romantic appeal.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Consider visiting the viewpoint at Punta Imperatore for similar panoramic scenery without the associated costs. Exploring other parts of Ischia, which offers thermal springs and beaches, can be a more budget-friendly way to experience the island.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lighthouse Experience: More Than Just a Stay
Guests rave about the attentiveness and kindness of the staff, who contribute significantly to the memorable experience. From the welcome tour detailing the lighthouse's past, including stories of its first guardian, Lucia, to the exceptional service at the restaurant and rooftop bar, every detail is curated.
While the journey involves many steps, the reward is unparalleled. The tranquility and exclusivity of the location, perched high above the sea, create a sense of escape. It's an ideal spot for honeymoons, special occasions, or simply for those seeking a profoundly peaceful retreat with unforgettable views.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Punta Imperatore
The sunset views from the rooftop terrace are legendary. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky ignites with color, casting a warm glow over the landscape and creating a truly magical atmosphere perfect for capturing stunning images.
+1 Drone photography is particularly popular here, allowing for breathtaking aerial perspectives of the lighthouse and its rugged coastal setting. Beyond the sunset, the panoramic vistas of the Gulf of Naples and the surrounding islands offer endless photographic possibilities. Whether you're using a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes or a telephoto lens for distant details, Punta Imperatore provides a diverse range of subjects to capture.
Dining and Delights: A Taste of Ischia
The rooftop bar is a highlight, especially during the late afternoon and evening. Here, you can enjoy exclusive aperitifs while witnessing the spectacular sunset over the sea. It's the perfect setting to relax and soak in the unique ambiance of the lighthouse.
+1While the lighthouse offers a premium dining experience, the surrounding areas of Forio and Panza provide a variety of other culinary options, from casual trattorias to local eateries, allowing visitors to explore the diverse flavors of Ischia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit