Procida - Escape The Crowds And Discover One Of Italy's Most Breathtaking Hidden Gems

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Nestled in the heart of southern Italy's Bay of Naples, Procida offers a refreshing alternative to the typical tourist hotspots. This charming island, despite its compact size, boasts a population of around 10,000, creating a vibrant local atmosphere.

Unlike its flashier neighbors, Ischia and Capri, Procida exudes a distinct authenticity. Here, you'll find a lived-in charm, free from the overwhelming crowds. Yet, Procida still attracts a loyal following of travelers seeking a true Italian island experience.

Procida's allure lies in its picturesque landscape and rustic appeal. Imagine colorful houses cascading down cliffsides, overlooking a sparkling harbor. This postcard-perfect setting is ideal for a relaxing day trip, allowing you to soak in the scenery and savor a delicious meal by the waterfront.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, a few days spent exploring Procida's hidden gems can be truly rewarding.

While the island boasts a slower pace, there are still sights to discover, from charming piazzas to historical landmarks.

Finding your perfect accommodation on Procida is a breeze, with a range of hotels catering to various needs and budgets.

Looking to Extend Your Italian Adventure?
Beyond Procida, Italy offers a treasure trove of destinations waiting to be explored. Consider venturing to the rolling hills of Tuscany, steeped in history and renowned for its culinary scene.

Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Ischia, Procida's larger neighbor, provides another island escape with a touch more luxury. Or, experience the fast-paced energy of Milan, Italy's fashion capital.

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How to get to Procida

The view from the island and its charm make for good filming sites which has led to the island being featured in a few movies including a classic “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” The island has ferry services that can take you from Naples and Ischia to Procida.

Travelling to Procida is quite easy since the nearest airport is in Naples. Once you get to the airport a bus ride to the waterfront “Molo Beverello” will get you to the ferries.

Once at Molo Beverello take a ferry to Ischia, Procida is on the way and the ferry makes a stop there. There are fast and slow ways to get there depending on what you want and some can be found in Mergellina, a different port in Naples.

Places to visit Free

Abbazia di San Michele
The Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo forms the cultural and religious core of the village of Terra Murata. It was built in the Benedictine times back in the 11th century and was torn down and rebuilt on many occasions. The abbey is an imposing structure that portrays the cultural and religious times of old.

The architecture of the abbey complex is an exhibition of the many transformations of building design that have taken place over the centuries. Some parts of the complex have lasted since the 15th century. The Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo is ranked as one of the most prestigious and richest churches in the South of Italy. In the library records is a book that has been kept since 1534.

Santa Maria delle Grazie
It is one of the hallmarks of the island. The magnificent dome can be seen from afar shimmering in the sunlight. The church is just as breathtaking from the inside. Its golden ceilings add and impressive depiction of the grandeur of this particular church. It stands at the hill where the view is the most enjoyable on the island.

As you move further up the hill the 15th century village of Terra Murata overlooks the expanse of the green vegetation that forms the floor of the island.

Casale Vascello
A beautiful courtyard built in the 15th century and surrounded by terraced houses featuring the residential architecture of that period. The area can only be accessed through a series of narrow passages one of them being Via Principessa Margherita starting from Piazza dei Martiri.

Santa Margherita Nuova
The church of Santa Margherita Nuova was recently reopened after extensive renovations. This is another of the structures on the island that holds a historical significance. The church had once been a monastery that was destroyed. It took 15 years of rebuilding to restore it.

The art inside the church will, however, evoke all the Italian history that might have been lost from the destruction. Sculptures and artifacts also help to piece together a little of the cultural dynamics of centuries past. While atop the cliff you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Corricella.

The village of Marina Corricella

Corricella is the oldest marina in Procida. This colorful village boasts a cultural heritage dating back to the 17th century. Known for its unique, haphazard housing style and rich fishing history, the village has weathered many storms since its inception.

The houses are built close together, forming a compact block. Despite this density, they are meticulously designed with balconies, windows, and external steps.

Interestingly, despite its long history as one of the island's oldest settlements, it doesn't exhibit many architectural features from medieval times.



Corricella's name reflects its cheerful atmosphere. Derived from the Greek "kora Cale," it translates to "nice neighborhood."

The brightly colored houses, especially when bathed in sunlight, offer a breathtaking view. This abundance of sunshine allows visitors to enjoy the island's delicious cuisine outdoors, even in the cooler winter months.

Another perk is the village's car-free environment. The absence of vehicle traffic makes getting around much easier and promotes a peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring Corricella requires navigating stairways and hidden passages that snake through the houses. This unique layout has helped it remain a haven of tranquility, shielded from the influences of surrounding areas like Casale Vascello and Terra Murata.

Lining the marina are several restaurants, offering delectable local cuisine and fresh seafood. You'll also find charming shops selling crafts, artwork, and fashion.

The village's picturesque setting, with its painted houses, colorful boats, and waterfront eateries, creates a natural tourist draw. However, despite its undeniable charm, Corricella, like most of Procida, retains its authenticity.

During the warmer months, enjoying a special dinner on the marina under soft lighting is a must-do for visitors. The experience is further enhanced by the romantic setting, just a stone's throw away from the sea.

Procida/Naples Tours

If you're visiting Naples a quick stopover in Procida is a great choice. There are also a lot of interesting tours from Naples worth checking out as well.

Beaches in Procida

Procida is endowed with several beaches whose quality varies. You can get to the beach as soon as you arrive on the island as the nearest beach is just a couple of minutes away from the ferry.

There is also another beach to be found on the far side of the marina used for yachting. Although they are quite popular in the area these beaches are not as impressive as others that are found on the island.

Chiaiolella Beach

Chiaiolella beach is at the far end of the island where one can go using buses L1 and L2. The harbor has been created into a large marina where there are a lot of leisure activities and food. The harbor comes to life during summer weekends when Italian families disembark from their yachts and enjoy a meal at the sandy beaches.

The coastline here is the longest on the island and the most-loved by tourists. The main reason it is so popular is because the waters are shallow and ideal for swimming during the warmer seasons of the year.

Chiaia Beach

Chiaia beach is on the west of Ischia and is the ideal place to take the kids while on a trip to Procida. It is a long stretch of golden sand that would be perfect for a day of fun and games, or if you prefer, just spreading your blanket out in the sand and enjoying the day with your family. The water is calm, shallow and clear.

The splendid beach can be reached from sea or through a staircase 186 steps long running from one of the most famous squares in the city center, Piazza Olmo. Piaza Olmo is a thriving shopping center which can be reached by bus lines L1, L2, C1. Once you are in Piazza Olmo you can easily reach all the other attractions in the city.

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Il Postino Beach

It is a small beach of the "Old Well" and shaped like a horseshoe. It is famously known for providing shooting locations for the film “Il Postino” which was an instant hit in Italy and soon after a worldwide hit. The island has some lively festivals during the summer and is also a great place for the kids.

Lingua Beach

The beach is located in the north-eastern end of the island of Procida next to Marina Grande. It can be accessed through two routes, one is through steps at the back of the beach, which leads to the Terra Murata area and the other from Marina Grande.

From the beach the towns of Miseno, Bacoli and Monte di Procida, which are on the mainland, can be seen across the narrow straight. There is also a beach bar suitably named "La Lingua" where you can purchase snacks, drinks and mini meals.

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Ciraccio Beach

It is the largest beach on the island of Procida. This together with the crystal clear and shallow waters make this beach a favorite for visitors. At Ciraccio beach you can easily find something to snack on as it is lined with restaurants, bars and beach clubs that serve a variety of seafood.

 

Moving around Procida

Moving around the town is quite easy because everything is close by. You can walk or use a taxi, which is not very expensive. There is also the option to rent a bike from a local shop and ride around the city exploring the sites. However, the best way to enjoy the city's scenic view is taking a three hour boat ride around the island.

Visitors can catch a boat ride from Marine Grande, which is the main port. You can really experience all the island has to offer with a boat ride through the picturesque landscape.

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Food. drink. Nightlife

Procida's culinary scene is a seafood lover's paradise. Fresh catches from the surrounding waters find their way onto menus across the island, with each restaurant showcasing its own unique spin.

Must-Try Seafood:
La Lampara:
Renowned for its focus on fresh ingredients, La Lampara offers a taste of the sea with dishes like grilled swordfish and mussel soup.

Prices here are refreshingly reasonable, with most plates around $27.

Beyond the Sea:
While seafood reigns supreme, Procida offers options for diverse palates. Ristorante Scarabeo has built a reputation for serving classic Italian fare.

Indulge in homemade delights like eggplant parmigiana and fried basil leaves (fritelle di basilico) at friendly prices starting around 31.

The hotels and restaurants on the island serve Limoncello, an original wine of the Procida island. A glass of this wine can be served with food or alone if you like.

Procida is known to be a quite place where there is not much to do during the night. On the contrary, the island has a lively night life and you can enjoy the many bars along the shoreline and other venues in the city center.

There are lively festivals that come to the island during the summer months. The jazz festival is especially known to bring the best of Italian trumpet jazz to the island incorporating it with some international acts to make the night even more memorable.

Thinking about visiting Islands in the Caribbean?

So, you fell in love with the island life after visiting Procida and now you want to check out some of the islands in the Caribbean? Have a look at this Caribbean resort and hotel guide.

Have you ever visited Procida? Let us know what you thought about the island.

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