I’m Enrico Bruscia – welcome to my travel guide on the best things to do in Procida. I was born and raised in Rimini. This town overlooks the sea on the northeastern coast of Italy. I’ve lived in Milan for the past 16 years. My job in industrial design has given me the chance to travel around the world.
Procida was one of those bucket-list places that I wanted to visit for a long time. Italy is full of secret destinations just waiting to be explored. This island in the Bay of Naples is known for its colourful architecture and natural beauty. My first impression was just how colourful the port was.
A Short but Wonderful Experience in Procida
My trip to Procida was a short but wonderful experience. I took a boat there from Naples. I would recommend basing yourself in Naples for a good couple of days before heading over to Procida by ferry. You can either take the high speed ferry or slow ferry which takes no longer than an hour.
The island is small. You can access every corner of it on foot. I arrived in the little fishing village/port of Corricella and ended up staying in an airbnb. This is the perfect way to enjoy the oldest village of Procida. It’s built in an amphitheatre style and characterised by stunning architecture.
Corricella was my favourite place in Procida. The colourful architecture, narrow streets, warm people, fresh sea breeze, smell of the sea and total absence of cars makes Corricella a small oasis. It was incomparable to any other place I’ve travelled to on earth. I highly recommend staying there.
10 Best Things To Do in Procida
Procida is one of the best hidden gems of Italy. It’s the smallest island in the Bay of Naples but it packs a big punch for such a small place. Enjoy the colourful villages, beautiful beaches, fresh seafood and rustic vibe of this amazing island. Below are my top ten recommendations.
1. Get Lost in the Streets of Marina di Corricella
If you see nothing else in Procida, make sure you come to Marina di Corricella. Get lost in the narrow streets and make your way to the waterfront for stunning sea views. Marvel at the spontaneous architecture of houses built directly on top of each other as they cascade down the cliff.
2. Admire the View over Marina di Corricella
As well as getting lost in the streets of Marina di Corricella, make sure you walk up to the lookout which offers postcard views of the village. Head up the road to the castle and enjoy romantic views over the bay with its classic fishing boats and colourful houses. This is a photographer’s dream!
3. Visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
One notable piece of architecture you will see from the lookout is the yellow church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. On your way down make sure you give this place a visit. This sanctuary was built in 1679 by the Archbishop Innico Caracciolo in a baroque style with a Greek cross plan.
4. Relax at the Rustic Beaches of Procida
The beaches of Procida are a nice addition to the island but certainly aren’t the biggest drawcard. There are quite a few beaches to choose from here including: Spiaggia Chiaia, Spiaggia Chiaiolella, Spiaggia Ciraccio, Spiaggia Cala del Pozzo Vecchio, Spiaggia Silurenza and Spiaggia Lingua.
5. Enjoy a Fresh Seafood Lunch in Procida
Procida is famous for its seafood. Locals have been eating seafood here since ancient times. Many restaurants line the waters edge offering fresh fish which is caught by the fishing vessels. The best places to find good seafood are at Sancho Catolico and Corricella. I recommend Caracalè.
6. Mix and Mingle with the Awesome Locals
If you want to have an authentic experience in Procida with the locals then I recommend coming outside of August (the most popular month). During these months the streets are full of locals going about their business. The people here are like all southern Italians – very rustic and hospitable.
7. Take a Boat Trip around the Island and Bays
One of the best things to do in Procida is jump on a boat tour and sail around the island – stopping off at beautiful bays along the way. Go swimming at the beaches and enjoy spectacular island views from the sea. Many companies offer boat excursions which include lunch on board.
8. Go Shopping at the Boutiques of Procida
Wandering the boutique shops of Procida is a great way to spend an afternoon. You can buy a famous carnival mask just like the ones in Venice, handmade Italian puppets such as the versions of Pinocchio, beautifully designed scarfs, magnificent pieces of art and many other souvenirs.
9. Discover the Medieval Village of Terra Murata
You can’t visit Procida without exploring Terra Murata. This fortified centre is a place of incredible history and beauty. It’s located on the highest point of the island and the walk here (although slightly difficult) is always worth the effort. Terra Murata can only be reached by walking across a rugged hill.
10. Tour the Ancient Prison of Procida
Lastly, while you’re exploring Terra Murata, be sure to stop off at the ancient prison. This jail is now established as a museum. You can take a guided tour of the prison. The tour will take you to the cell building, guards pavilion, courtyard, barracks of the guards, veterans building and more!
What you Need to Know Before you Go
There’s not much you need to know before you visit Procida. Obviously, you can take a ferry from Naples and book your accommodation online before your arrival. The people of Procida are super friendly and you will fall in love with the authentic vibe here. Have fun in the colourful Procida!
