When planning a trip to Italy, most travelers have the Amalfi Coast and Capri on their bucket lists, which is completely understandable. But why does Procida often fly under the radar, despite being such an amazing and charming Italian island? I decided to visit Procida not only because it’s less touristy during the high season but also because it’s affordable for all types of travelers. Here’s the essential information I gathered from my time there to help you make the most of your visit:
- Where Is Procida Located?
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach Procida
- Day Trip or Overnight Stay: Choosing the Right Option for You
- Transportation and Getting Around the Island
- Top Things to Do and Must-See Attractions
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Where Is Procida Located?
Procida is located in the Bay of Naples, Southern Italy. It sits between the island of Ischia and the city of Monte di Procida. It is also the smallest island in the bay, covering only 3.7 square kilometers.
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Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit Procida are in May, June, or September, when the weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 28°C, and the island has a quieter vibe. July and August are quite busy, as many locals from Naples come to the island for their summer vacations.
For those who enjoy milder weather, both spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are great choices. You’ll get warm temperatures without the intense summer heat, and there are fewer crowds than during peak season.
Winter (December to February) is the least popular season due to cooler temperatures, which makes tanning on the beaches less appealing. Plus, some shops and restaurants close down during the low season, so the island’s atmosphere can feel a bit dead.
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How to Reach Procida
The only way to reach Procida is by ferry, and there are several places from where you can catch one, depending on your location:
Available Seasonally
- From Sorrento: 3 to 7 weekly ferries, with rides lasting between 40 minutes to 2 hours. Operates from May to September.
- From Salerno: 1 crossing per day in the early morning, lasting 3 hours and 40 minutes. Operates during the summer, departing from Molo Manfredi.
- From Amalfi Coast: 1 crossing per day, averaging 2 hours and 50 minutes. Operates only in the summer.
- From Baiae: 5 weekly crossings, usually lasting 45 minutes. Operates in the summer.
- From Capri: 5 weekly crossings, usually lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes. Operates in the summer.
- From Monte di Procida: 2 crossings per day, each lasting 10 minutes. Operates from June to mid-September.
- From Ischia: About 20 daily connections in the summer, lasting 15 to 40 minutes. Departures from both Ischia Porto and Casamicciola.
Available All Year Round
- From Naples: Over 20 daily crossings, each lasting between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Departures from Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa Pier.
Where to Book Your Tickets
You can book your tickets either online or directly at the pier. During the high season, it’s recommended to book in advance online to secure a place on the ferry, as some routes can be very popular.
I found that the easiest way to book tickets is through the Omio app. It gives you all available options for your route, with different times and prices. Once you purchase your ticket on the app, you’ll need to have it printed at the pier. Show your online ticket, and they’ll provide a printable version for boarding.
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Day Trip or Overnight Stay: Choosing the Right Option for You
This choice depends on what you want from your trip: a quick visit to explore what Procida has to offer, or a longer stay to fully immerse yourself in the island’s charm.
A day trip is ideal if your time in Italy is limited, but you still want to experience an island in the Bay of Naples. By taking the first ferry from your departure point and the last one back from Procida, you’ll have enough time to enjoy most activities, have a meal, and get a glimpse of island life. I did this and absolutely loved my day!
Staying overnight is perfect if you want to explore the island more deeply without feeling rushed. If you have the time, I highly recommend staying for a night or two! You’ll get the chance to try more restaurants, enjoy additional beaches, and truly live the Italian lifestyle for a few days. The island offers a range of accommodations, including Airbnbs and hotels.
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Transportation and Getting Around the Island
Procida is a small island, making it easy to navigate. Here are the four main options:
1. On Foot: Procida’s small size and narrow streets, especially near the marina and old town, make it ideal for walking. I discovered hidden gems and easily reached most attractions this way. If you’re in good physical shape and enjoy walking, I highly recommend this option.
2. By Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is another great way to explore Procida. It’s faster than walking but still allows you to enjoy the scenic views. Keep in mind that some areas can be a bit hilly, so be prepared for a workout! Rental shops offer bikes for around 10 to 15 euros (15 to 22$ CAD) per day. A popular option is Procida Bike Rental near the marina. Booking in advance online, especially during the high season, is recommended.
3. By Car: Driving on Procida can be challenging due to the narrow streets and limited parking. I don’t recommend this option, particularly because the older parts of the island have very tight roads. Additionally, it’s a costly choice for a short-stay visit.
4. Public Transportation: Procida has a small bus system that connects key areas of the island. Buses are convenient for reaching more remote spots like Terra Murata or lesser-known beaches. Tickets can be purchased on the bus, and services run frequently during the tourist season. However, walking or renting a bike is often more efficient and enjoyable.
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Top Things to Do and Must-See Attractions
Procida is a small island, so the list of activities isn’t extensive. However, the most popular and worthwhile ones include:
- Strolling Through the Streets Near the Marina
- Terra Murata: The Best Viewpoint on the Island
- Enjoying the Beaches
- Visiting Palazzo d’Avalos
For more detailed information on these fun activities, make sure to check out my related article 4 Of the Best Things to Do in Procida, Italy.
What’s Next?
Now that you know everything about Procida, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful :
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