Mid-century thermal landmark
The hotel preserves its 1950s jet-set spirit, carrying bathers between volcanic springs and private sun decks on the bay.
“The faux Graeco-Roman up-lit pediment and columned threshold of the legendary spa is equally, gloriously, camp.”
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Hypermineral springs emerging above fifty degrees feed thermal baths and six-month matured clay mud.
Remarkable
Angelo Rizzoli built this 1956 mid-century landmark atop ancient Greco-Roman thermal ruins.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
Its 128 rooms and suites, however, have been subtly updated, thanks to a thorough restoration at the turn of the new century.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Piazza Santa Restituta sits just outside, and trails lead from the village up the green slopes of Mount Epomeo.
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The rooms
Bedrooms keep their original ornate tile floors, and Royal wing suites open onto terraces with private thermal plunge pools.
The outdoor pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Curved pools border the harbor edge, set on wooden sundecks with white parasols facing the bay.
The thermal pool
Local mineral springs feed the indoor pool, which is lined with slatted wood walls and floor-to-ceiling glass.
The gym
Mirrored walls line the fitness room, and personal trainers work with guests among rows of weight machines.
At the table
Michelin-starred Indaco serves seafood on a pier over the water. Inside, cocktails are poured beside a grand piano.
Opened in the 1950s by Italian movie producer and magazine publisher Angelo Rizzoli, L’Albergo della Regina Isabella was Ischia’s first luxury property to entice celebrity clientele.
How it began

The hotel draws its name from Queen Isabella of Naples, who traveled here to bathe in the local thermal springs.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.