Procida Guide: Top Things to do in Procida

Procida is the smallest of the three main islands in the Bay of Naples. This beautiful getaway is full of culture and hues of colors. With the island being only 4 square km, you can enjoy exploring the island on a day trip or stay over for a scenic and serene experience.

If you want to venture into the lesser-visited parts of the Bay of Naples on your trip to Italy, Procida is the perfect hidden gem that should be on your itinerary.

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How to get to Procida

Getting to Procida is fairly easy. From Naples, it takes almost 40 minutes on the hydrofoil and almost an hour on the ferry. You can also get to Procida from Ischia which would take you 15 minutes on the hydrofoil and just 30 minutes on the ferry. You can buy the tickets at the ports but you need to make sure you reach there on time to get the tickets. Check the latest time-table for the ferry and hydrofoil here. 

What to do in Procida

This might be the smallest island in the Bay of Naples but this island is full of sights to offer. From beautiful views of the ocean to the architecture of the colorful houses, there is something for everyone.

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Marina di Corricella

The Marina di Corricella is one of the oldest fishing villages in Procida and has some of the most colorful houses on display. The port has colorful fishing boats and ships pouring in and out and an amazing view of the mediterranean sea.

The hues of the houses will surely catch your eye and get you some amazing pictures. You can start off at the Corricella and walk up to the other spots.

Terra Murata

Terra Murata means the walled land and this is the stronghold at the northernmost tip of the island. This fortified village was built in the 16th century and has been protecting the island from the dangers of the sea. The views from up there are breathtaking as you get the panorama of Procida as well as the azure Mediterranean sea. You can also get an amazing view of the Corricella from up there. It is a quiet spot where you will not find a lot of tourists. If you want a piece of Italian history then the Terra Murata is a must-visit.

Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo

The fortified Terra Murata houses the Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo. This ancient structure is one of the oldest on the island. This used to be a Benedictine abbey that housed monks but was later turned into a church in the early 1500s. It has some amazing artwork on its walls and a catacomb as well. This is one of the highest points on the island and has a very picturesque view of the ocean and the island.

Marina Grande

The Marina Grande is the only place on the island that remotely resembles the other two islands in the Bay of Naples. This place is full of people as the ships and ferries dock at this marina. You can find numerous bars and restaurants on the Marina Grande. In the backdrop of the marina are some gorgeous pastel-colored buildings that act as the gateway to the essence of Procida. You can take a walk on the Via-Roma waterfront and enjoy the beaches on either side.

Walk around the island

It’s an experience in itself just to walk around and wander on the island. The colorful rustic houses and the green gardens complement each other and make for some unmissable eye candy. You’ll find locals going about their day and scooters rushing up and down the narrow streets. The streets are lined with little flower hedges and lemon groves which really do add to the ambiance of the island. The exterior of the island is equally beautiful with long stretching black beaches that meet the blue Mediterranean. 

Visit a Procida Beach 

The island is surrounded by some of the most beautiful volcanic beaches that you can explore and enjoy. The black sand and the teal Mediterranean water makes for a sight to behold. Here are some of the beaches that you can visit around Procida:

Chiaia

This is the beach nearest to Corricella. The best time to visit Chiaia is in the mornings. You can enjoy the sea and the cliffs at this beach.

Chiaiolella

The best time to visit Chiaiolella is anytime in the afternoon and later. You’ll find some great bars to enjoy a drink by the beach and catch the sunset.

Cala del Pozzo Vecchio

This is a rather small bay compared to the other beaches. The beach has a bar and some space to relax. The most notable feature of the beach is that the classic film II Postino was shot here which attracts a lot of people.

La Lingua

This is a pebbly beach unlike the other volcanic black beaches around the island. La Lingua has beautiful clear water where you can enjoy a dip and the sunrise behind the mountains.

Ciraccio

This is a quiet beach that is long and sandy. A great place to sunbathe and relax. It is connected to Chiaiolella and is a lovely beach.

What to eat in Procida

You can enjoy a wide variety of Italian delicacies all around the island. The lemon salad is a local specialty that should be a must-try on your list. The lingua which is a local pastry is also a must-try. Along with the local specialties, you can also have the Italian classics like some amazing pizza at the local pizzerias. You can enjoy the ambiance of the local hotels and relax with a drink and some great food. To top the dining experience off, you can always depend on the gelato from gelaterias on the island.

Transportation in Procida

Getting around Procida is fairly straightforward. It takes only 40 minutes to walk from one end of the island to the other and walking is going to be the best way to get around. There are local buses that run across the island every 30 minutes. You can also rent electric bikes and scooters to scoot around and save some time if you are in a time crunch.

Where to stay in Procida

Normally Procida can be experienced all within a day. But at times you may feel the need to stay back and take in the beauty of the island. This island has a range of accommodation options available. You won’t find any luxury hotels on the island but the ones you find are beautiful and rustic. There are campsites and Bed and Breakfasts as well. You can also rent apartments, which is definitely a more convenient option.

FAQS

What are the best seasons to visit Procida for weather and avoiding crowds?

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal for visiting Procida, offering mild weather and smaller crowds compared to the peak summer months.

Are there any cultural or historical tours available to learn more about Procida's history?

Yes, Procida often offers cultural and historical tours that explore the island's rich history. Visitors can find guided tours through local tourism offices or you can check the best tours and book them in advance here.

Can visitors rent boats to explore Procida's coast on their own?

Boat rentals are available for visitors wishing to explore Procida's coast. Rental services offer a range of options from small boats to yachts, with or without a skipper. Check out the best options here.

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