The Amalfi Coast is known around the world for its charming hillside villages, stunning beaches along the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea and islands that dot the coastline. Capri, Positano, Ravello and Amalfi are some of the most famous destinations along the Amalfi Coast… but there’s one place that isn’t yet on everyone’s radar.
→ Read Next: One Week Itinerary for the Amalfi Coast
Procida (pronounced Pro-chee-dah) is the smallest island in the Bay of Naples and neighbors the islands of Capri and Ischia. Although small in size, Procida packs a lot of charm!
This hidden gem is made up of pastel-colored houses, beaches and scenic viewpoints — and is totally worth a spot on your Amalfi Coast itinerary.
Here’s how to spend one day in Procida, Italy!
About Procida
Most visitors to Procida are Neapolitans looking for a quick summer getaway! While the international tourists flock to the packed beaches of Positano and Amalfi, you’ll find less crowds on Procida island.
The island has traditionally been — and still is — a fisherman’s outpost. It has a small, local community of fisherman who have been there for generations and you can really feel the authenticity untouched by mass tourism on the island.
Procida may have flown under the radar but it was just named Italy’s Capital of Culture for 2022. With this recognition, the island is sure to see more tourism in the years to come.. but don’t expect the glitz and glamour of Capri or Positano as the residents plan to keep their authentic traditions and humble roots!
How to Get to Procida
Getting to Procida is fairly simple! There are daily ferries and hydrofoils departing from both Naples and Pozzuoli, located just slightly north of Naples.
If you’re departing from Naples, you have two departure options: Molo Beverello and Porta di Massa. And depending on whether you opt for the ferry (slower) or the hydrofoil (faster), the journey should take you around 30 minutes – 1 hour.
Ferries also run between Procida and Ischia, the closest island — which is also worth visiting. The ride takes just 15 – 30 minutes so adding both islands to your itinerary is a good idea!
→ Read Next: How to Spend One Day in Ischia
How to Get Around Procida
Since the island is less than 2 square miles, it is extremely easy to get around!
Walking is your best option — it takes just 15 minutes walk to get from Marina Grande (where the ferry arrives) to Marina di Corricella.
Many of the hotels in the area also offer bicycle rentals which is another wonderful and scenic way to explore the island.
There are also public bus lines that start from Marina Grande (with tickets costing around 1€ per ride). Or, you can opt to take a taxi from one of the taxi stands at each of the marinas.
Marina Corricella, the colorful fishing village
This is probably the most photographed spot in Procida — and for good reason. This small marina is surrounded by a charming maze of pastel colored houses, quaint churches and waterfront restaurants.
Wandering through Marina Corricella, I felt like we were practically the only tourists there. Surrounded by locals going about their day, we explored the narrow, colorful streets and felt totally immersed in the culture of the island.
Explore Terra Murata
Located on the highest point of the island, Terra Murata is a fortified medieval stronghold and another highlight of Procida.
It’s home to a beautiful church, Abbazia San Michele Arcangelo, and Palazzo D’Avalos, a 16th century building with an interesting history. Starting out as the home of the island’s governing family, in 1830, it was converted into a prison holding some of Italy’s most dangerous criminals until it closed in 1988. Today, you can tour the building but need to book tickets in advance.
Walking up to Terra Murata will give you the best viewpoints on the island! On one side, you’ll get incredible views of colorful Marina Corricella, and on the other, the beautiful Gulf of Naples.
Have Lunch on the Marina
After working up an appetite on your walk to Terra Murata, head back down to Marina Corricella and grab lunch on the marina.
Sampling the local seafood at a waterfront restaurant is a must in Procida!
Consider Il Pescatore, located in the heart of the marina and serves local dishes with straight-from-the-sea ingredients in a charming atmosphere.
Spend an Afternoon at Beach
Procida has a number of beautiful beaches to explore, most with dark sand due to the islands volcanic origin.
Near Marina di Corricella, is Spiaggia Chiaia, one of the most well-known beaches which has a couple of beach clubs and a restaurant. Another beautiful beach is Pozzo Vecchio (or La Spiaggia del Postino) which is about a 20 minute walk from the port of Procida and has one private beach club.
Dinner at La Pergola
Located in the center of the island, Ristorante La Pergola is perfect for a romantic dinner and authentic Italian meal. Plus, the restaurant is uniquely set in a lush garden of lemon trees.
Dining beneath a canopy of lemon trees is like something straight out of an Italian postcard!
Where to Stay in Procida
If you’re looking to spend more than one day exploring the beautiful island of Procida and want to stay the night (or more!), here are some of the best lodging options on the island.
- San Michele B&B: This bed and breakfast is a great option if you want to stay right in charming Marina Corricella. The rooms are beautifully decorated, the views unbeatable and there is a wonderful breakfast buffet every morning.
- Calacala Rooms & Farm Experience: This guest house experience is located in a lovely garden setting and within walking distance from several beaches.
- Albergo La Vigna: This hotel is set on a hill in an ancient watch tower — how cool is that?! And with gardens, a pool and spectacular views, you won’t want to leave.
- Hotel Ristorante Crescenzo: Located near Chiaiolella port, this hotel is great for budget travelers and is known for their delicious in-house pizza restaurant!
And that’s my one day itinerary for Procida, Italy! Have you been to Procida before? Let me know if there’s anything I missed in the comments!
This is amazing !! Thanks so much for your insightful posts : )
Such a great trip! 🙂