A short ferry ride from the coast of Naples will take you to a little-known paradise. We are talking about the smallest island in the Bay of Naples – the Procida island. Though not as well known as the Capri and Ischia islands, this little island is a gem with a distinctively Italian feel. Azure blue waters, vibrant houses on hilltops, and cobblestone streets lure every wanderer – there is much more in Procida island Italy than meets the eye. Experience a rustic Italian charm with spectacular views, taste authentic Italian pizzas, and bask in the beaches at this true Italian escape.
Best Places To Visit In Procida Island Italy
Procida Island has cobblestone, narrow streets that traverse the island’s length. It is a small island where you can travel by foot or bicycle and explore scenic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and other islands in Naples Bay. The colourful houses in this four square kilometre island offer the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy clicks, and its volcanic sand beaches are the ideal relaxation spot to watch sunrise and sunsets. Here are the best places to explore on Procida Island.
1. Corricella
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Think pastel-coloured houses with postcard-perfect windows high above the streets, harbours of bobbing fishing boats, and restaurants with the finest Italian delicacies. The main village centre of Procida island offers all this and much more. The Marina de la Coricella is a picturesque fisherman village that has been the location of numerous movies. Unlike the neighbouring coastal villages that brim with tourists, Corricella retains its authentic Italian feel, with fishermen casting nets and packing spoils for the day.
How to Reach: You can reach Procida Island by ferry from Naples and take a taxi or bus or walk to Procida (1.1 km).
Nearest Railway Station: Molo Beverello
Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport
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2. Terra Murata
Image Credit: Ekrem Canli for Wikimedia Commons
The multi-coloured houses of Corricella are a sight to behold, though they are not visible from the island itself. Just by Corricella is a hillside site of a fortified city called Terra Murata. Once atop Terra Murata, you will get tantalising of Corricella and the shimmering Mediterranean waters. Built on the highest point of Procida island, Terra Murata gives you panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples – including the cannons installed during the Neapolitan Republic. The highest point is the Palazzo D’Avalos, initially the royal palace converted into a prison citadel until its closure in 1988. Other places to visit are the Via Del Borgo, the underground network of ancient burials, and the Abbey of St. Michaels (XVI), which has painting masterpieces, including St Michael defeating Satan.
How to Reach: You can take a ferry to Procida island to Naples, a cab, or a business to Corricella. From there, you have to walk to the top of the hill to reach Terra Murata (2.6 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Molo Beverello
Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport
3. Pozzo Vecchio
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Being an island, Procida is home to several beaches renowned for their volcanic sand and mesmerising views. The most famous beach is the Pozzo Vecchio, known among locals as La Spiaggia del Postino. Like others, Pozzo Vecchio has dark sand, but the serene landscape and pellucid waters invoke a sense of enchantment. Tourists can only arrive at this beach via ferry, boat, or ladder just below the island’s cemetery. Located on the northern side of Procida, you can see ferries to and fro Naples and the island of Ischia within touching distance. Pozzo Vecchio has also been at the forefront of popular culture, with movies like II Postinp and Massimo Troisi shot on this beach.
How to Reach: Take a bus from the Port of Procida to the cemetery or walk from the Port (1.8 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Molo Beverello
Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport
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4. Chiaiolella Beach
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The Ciracciello, popularly known as the Spiaggia della Chiaiolella, is one of the busiest coastlines in Procida island. The beach’s shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, and the lush greenery sprinkled with Rocky areas makes the sight even more impressive. Sunbathing on this idyllic beach will give you panoramic views of Ischia and the Isle of Vivara. There is also a dock and a promenade behind the beach full of restaurants and bars for you to bask in the magical golden hour at this serene beach.
How to Reach: From Naples, you can take a ferry to the Procida islands and then take a bus, taxi, or walk to Chiaiolella Beach (2.7 km).
Nearest Railway Station: Molo Beverello
Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport
5. Chiaia Beach
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Chiaia Beach is a little paradise tucked centrally in Procida island. It is one of the most isolated beaches due to its difficult access. The only way to reach Chiaia is by sea or foot, requiring 186 steps to descend from an alleyway in Piazza Olmo. But once there, your gaze will be affixed with a 360-degree view of the pristine blue sea, the port of Corricella and its colourful houses, and Terra Murata. Chiaia Beach has a bar and a restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Naples.
How to Reach: Take a ferry from Corricella port or walk to the Chiaia beach (1.1 km).
Nearest Railway Station: Molo Beverello
Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport
6. Marina Grande Sent’Co
Image Credit: Berthold Werner for Wikipedia
The Port of Marina Grande, popularly known as Sent’Co by locals, is the first port on Procida where tourists arrive. The area around the ferry dock is itself worth exploring. Walk through pastel-coloured houses, treat yourself at authentic Italian cafes, shop at boutiques via Roma, and visit the San Giovanni Batista church to immerse yourself in Procida’s infectious vibes. You can also book a boat ride or a ferry for a guided trip over the pristine waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
How to Reach: You can ferry from Naples to Marina Grande Sent’co.
Nearest Railway Station: Molo Beverello
Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport
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Despite its small size, Procida offers a paradisiacal and tranquil escape to a romantic island setting where you can find everything you need. There are several accommodations and bread and breakfasts throughout the island, and shops, bars, pharmacies, restaurants, and cafes operate late into the night. Procida is ideal for single-day trips as well as extended stays. Sunbathe at volcanic beaches, tickle your senses with tantalising views, and absorb the Mediterranean culture in this microcosmic Italian escape. You can also take a ferry to the nearby islands of Ischia and Capri. Procida Island is indeed an experience to savour. If you plan to visit Procida Island, Italy, check out the trip to Italy that is worth your visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Procida Island, Italy
How to reach Procida?
Procida is a small island in the Gulf of Naples, between the Ischia and Capri islands. It is accessible by ferry or hydrofoil from the Molo Beverello port in Naples. Indirect ferry routes also exist from other popular tourist destinations, such as Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.
When is the best time to visit Procida?
The peak tourist season in Procida is during the summer months when Italians vacation and bask in the island's beaches. The best time to visit Procida when tourists are scarce and rates are reasonable is during Easter. The island lights up with Mediterranean celebrations and cultures during this time.
Where can I stay at Procida?
Procida is divided into nine neighbourhoods, among which the popular tourist destinations are Corricella, Marina Grande, and Chiaolella. The colourful cottages and waterfront shops make Corricella a romantic neighbourhood on the island, followed by Chiaolella and Marina Grande. Marina Grande Sent'co is the island's centre, with good business connectivity and various local shops and restaurants.
When is the best time to visit Procida?
The peak tourist season is May-September, when multiple ferries from Naples to the island operate. The weather of Procida is like Southern Italy, with mild temperatures and frequent rains during winters. Winters are a dull season on the island, with most restaurants and shops closing.
How do I get around Procida?
Procida is a tiny island. The most popular way to explore the island is by renting a bicycle or scooter. A bus terminal at Marina Grande connects the island's hotspots. You can also walk around the island, which spans a mere 4 km and can be covered in 45-60 minutes.
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