Where is Procida?
Procida is located in the Italian Gulf of Naples near the tiny island of Vivara (the two are connected via a bridge), as well as the islands of Ischia and Nisida, a smattering of volcanic islands with a landscape of rugged tufo and basalt stone. Procida can be reached all year round from the Molo Beverello port in Naples (Napoli) and Pozzuoli via ferry or hydrofoil. Ferry services run more frequently in the high-season summer months, and there are also indirect ferry routes from other locations in the region of Campania, including Sorrento, Ischia and the Amalfi Coast.
Where should I stay on Procida?
The only municipality on Procida is divided into nine neighborhoods: Terra Murata (the most historic section of which sits at the base of the former prison), Marina Corricella, Sent'cò with the Marina Grande port, Sant'Antonio and Chiaiolella, San Leonardo, Santissima Annunziata, Sant'Antuono, and Semmarezio.
Corricella is the most romantic neighborhood on the island, ideal for couples looking for a picturesque escape where they can experience the timeless feel of a real fishing village. When one thinks of Procida, the first thing that comes to mind are the delightfully colorful cottages in the fishing neighborhood of Corricella, with its bobbing fishing boats and fishing nets, pretty waterfront restaurants, souvenir shops selling local crafts, and iconic granita at Felice Mare.
Chiaiolella is the marina located on the southern part of the islands, well-connected by bus and famous for its volcanic sand beach, tiny harbor, and traditional restaurants that specialize in local fish and seafood. The local services and spacious beach make it a great choice for families.
Marina Grande, or Sent’Cò, and the locals call it, is where most tourists land on the island. This is a strategic spot to use as a base for your visit to the island because it’s easy to get around. The port and bus terminal are just steps away, and you can catch a bus to destinations across the island. This port area is also packed with beaches, cafés, restaurants, and the island’s famed colorful houses.
Terra Murata is the most historic corner of Procida, with an old town that sits 90 meters above sea level. The village is dominated by Palazzo d’Avalos, built between 1560 and 1570 by the Avalos dynasty, later transformed into a royal palace and hunting lodge by King Charles III of Spain. After 1815, the building was first a military academy and then a prison; today it is in the process of being transformed into a museum and accommodations. This area is less conveniently located than others, but there are splendid villas to rent and hotels with sweeping views across the island.
What should I see and how do I get around the island?
The island of Procida is very tiny, and is less a cultural destination than a retreat where you can slow your pace and enjoy the timeless Mediterranean atmosphere of southern Italy. Stroll the narrow lanes in Corricella to admire the pastel homes of local fishing families or stop to take in the views along the road that leads to Terra Murata, the Abbazia di San Michele, and the Monastero di Santa Margherita, stopping to purchase local crafts in the artisan workshops in Marina Grande and lingering over meals of fish and seafood at bargain prices.
The island offers plenty for those who love to spend time at the beach. There are a number of beaches and coves that can only be reached by foot or by sea where you can dive into crystalline waters and sunbathe in peace and quiet. Among the most famous beaches are Pozzo Vecchio, known for its natural beauty and as the backdrop in a number of scenes from the film "Il Postino" (The Postman) with Massimo Troisi, Ciraccio, and Spiaggia Chiaia on the eastern coast facing Ischia. To reach the latter beach, you must take 180 steps down to the water’s edge, but the view of Corricella makes it worthwhile. Be sure to take a day trip to Vivara, the crescent moon-shaped island that sits just 3 kilometers from Procida and is connected to the larger island via a bridge. Vivara, together with Procida and Ischia, is part of the protected marine reserve "Il Regno di Nettuno”, rich in marine flora and fauna including a large colony of dolphins and underwater archaeological ruins that are a popular dive site.
The easiest way to get around Procida is by renting a scooter, especially if you are traveling in a couple, or by bike. There are a number of locations on the island that can be easily reached on foot (keep in mind that it only takes about 40 minutes to walk across the entire island). Otherwise, there are also public buses on the island, with the terminal in Marina Grande. We don’t recommend driving due to the narrow streets and limited parking.
When is the best time of year to visit Procida?
Procida's tourist season runs from Easter to the beginning of October, and there are a wide range of ferries that run from Naples during these months; from June to September, there are also ferries from Capri, Ischia, and Sorrento. The best time of year to visit Procida is the months of May, June, and September.
The climate on the island is like most of southern Italy, with mild temperatures all year round but frequent rain showers from November to March. Most restaurants and hotels close in the winter.
