Ponza, a picturesque island right in the heart of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a jewel of the Mediterranean; ideal for lovers of nature, sports and relaxation. Tourists visit Ponza by ferry every year to see the striking landscapes of Ponza, its crystal-clear waters, and its charming atmosphere that has not been ruined by the modern world. From stunning secluded beaches to gastronomical restaurants, bars and boutiques, Ponza really does have something for every character.
In the following paragraphs, we will give you important information on how to book the best ferry tickets, how to get around the island and what to do during your stay, so that your visit will be perfectly smooth and remain indelible in your memory.
Ferry routes to Ponza
Ponza is very well connected to mainland Italy and the nearby islands with ferry services. This connection varies according to the time of year, both in frequency and duration and sometimes to the type of ferry.
Seasonality
Ferry services to Ponza are heavily influenced by the tourist season. The main ferry connections are operated from April to October, with a peak between the summer months when demand is at its best. During the winter, particularly from November to March, services are drastically reduced and fewer ferry services are operated.
- High season: During the summer, ferries operate quite frequently and connect with several routes each day to major mainland ports such as Formia, Anzio and Terracina. In addition to these, there are connections from Naples and other nearby islands such as Ventotene and Ischia
- Low season: The ferries operate fewer services, usually at weekends and when necessary during the low season. Itineraries should be checked in advance
Duration
Time spent on ferries depends directly on the point of departure and the vessel's type.
- From Formia to Ponza: It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes with a high-speed ferry and about 1 hour and 30 minutes with a conventional ferry boat
- From Anzio to Ponza: It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes by hydrofoil and up to 1 hour and 40 minutes by regular ferry
- From Naples to Ponza: 2 hours by conventional ferry and 1 hour and 30 minutes by hydrofoil
Vessel categories
The ferry services operating to Ponza include a mix of vessels; high-speed faster smaller vessels and conventional ferries, which are larger, much slower ships.
- High-speed hydrofoils: In peak season, these run faster and more frequently, thus, are chosen for those who wish to get in their destination quicker
- Conventional ferries: They are larger, hence, they can carry more cars, more passengers and luggage
Ferry tickets can be booked in advance online, especially during periods of high demand. For convenience, advance booking is recommended, especially for tourists traveling during peak periods. This is even more important if someone is traveling by vehicle, as there is limited space to accommodate cars on board
Getting around Ponza
Ponza is a relatively small island and ideal for on-foot explorations, or you could make use of the various modes of local transportation to help get you around. Though public transportation options are limited, you have a couple of fairly convenient and pleasant ways to move around and explore its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and hidden coves.
- Walking: Walking is great on Ponza, and most of the nicest places are best reached on foot. Steep cliffs, twisting pathways, and walking trails with breathtaking views over the sea make up the landscape here
- Scooter rentals: Renting a scooter or moped is instead one of the most popular and convenient ways to get around Ponza, particularly for couples and single travelers
- Taxis: Ponza has a small fleet of taxis, although they are not as widely available as in larger cities. Taxis can be useful if you're heading to further locations or if you have luggage with you, but they tend to be pricier than other types of transportation
- Public bus: The public bus system on Ponza is limited but can serve tourists, departing from Via Banchina Nuova, next to the port area
- Bicycles: Bicycles can be hired for very short tours or rides, mostly for fun, especially if you happen to be in centrally located areas. The coastal path and quiet lanes through this island are enjoyable by bike, however, cyclists should expect steep and demanding roads on this island
About Ponza
Ponza is the largest island in the Pontine Archipelago, situated opposite the western coast of Italy in the Tyrrhenian Sea. This beautiful island is famous for its limpid water, rugged landscapes, picturesque villages and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere that attracts a local and international clientele all over the year. In Ponza, you will get the perfect combination of history, natural beauty and authentic Italian culture, making it probably one of the "must-see" places if you want to enjoy an unspoiled morsel of the Mediterranean.
What is Ponza famous for?
- Natural beauty: Ponza is famous for its dramatic coastline, characterized by steep cliffs, hidden caves and turquoise bays. The island also has crystal-clear waters, hence considered an ideal place for swimming, snorkeling and diving
- Beaches & bays: The island features beaches accessible by boat, including Cala Feola, Cala dell'Acqua and the exceptional Chiaia di Luna Beach, whose sheer white cliffs plunge straight into the sea. The bays around this island give an excellent opportunity for most visitors to enjoy their peace of mind in uninhabited waters
- History: Ponza has a rich and interesting history. The ancient Romans utilized Ponza as one of the many other places for exile and ruins from its historic past can be seen today; this includes the Roman Villas. It is also very ancient in appearance at Ponza's harbor, with brightly colored houses and an energetic promenade
- Mediterranean culture in full bloom: The island still retains much of its traditional Italian charm, with narrow streets, whitewashed building facades and colorful fishing boats. Its culture, deeply rooted in the sea, features excellent seafood restaurants, a lively cafe scene and local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts
Attractions in Ponza
- Ponza Town (Centro Storico): Lying in the heart of the island is the town of Ponza, a village with narrow streets, whitewashed houses and vibrantly colored waterfront views
- Chiaia di Luna Beach: At the foot of dramatic white cliffs, Chiaia di Luna is considered to be one of the island's most famous beaches and will leave a lasting impression with its wonderfully well-framed scenery
- Monte Guardia: A hike up to Monte Guardia, Ponza's highest point, for views of the island, becomes compulsory. From the top, it is possible to take a wide-ranging view of the coastline of the island
- Cave of Pilate (Grotte di Pilato): This ancient Roman site is an interesting one. Comprising several caves and baths excavated out of the cliffs, according to tradition, this is where the emperor Tiberius used to retreat
- The natural pools are Ponza's best-kept secret: Beautiful, shallow lagoons, formed by the sea where the waves crash against the rocks
- Palmarola Island: Perfect haven a little farther away from Ponza, with its secluded beaches, crystalline waters and rough cliffs, is ideal for a favorite boat trip, snorkeling and having a quiet day out
- Ruins of the Roman Villa: The island of Ponza has a lot of ruins from its time as a Roman retreat. One of the most well-known and accessible Roman villas is near the village of Le Forna
- The Lighthouse of Capo Bianco: Situated on the southernmost tip, it overlooks Ponza and the surrounding sea with breathtaking views, offering a great point for a photo or a relaxed walk along the coast
Things to do in Ponza
- Boat tours & excursions: The possibility to see and experience the coastal scenery around Ponza and its outer islands is highly recommended with a boat tour
- Snorkeling & diving: Crystal-clear waters around Ponza are perfect for snorkeling and diving. Rich marine life and a host of renowned spots for snorkeling and diving are real assets of the island
- Hiking & walking: There are a number of trails around Ponza, suitable for hiking and walking tours
- Dining & drinking: Fresh seafood, locally grown produce and Mediterranean flavors are at the core of Ponza's food. Dine on today's catch at one of the many shoreline seafood restaurants, with caught-that-day fish served along with homemade pasta and equally fresh wine
- Shopping local crafts: Ponza also has a few nice shops where you can buy products of local production, from local ceramics and handmade jewelry to local wines and olive oils
- Nightlife: While Ponza is not as pulsating with late-night life as other islands, it has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere
