Located in the beautiful and world famous Bay of Naples, this pint-sized Italian island stays wonderfully warm even as autumn sets in. While much of Europe begins to cool, this laid-back spot still sees temperatures of up to 23C in October, according to Holiday Weather. Procida is a lesser known island located right between Cape Miseno and the island of Ischia, and is less than two square miles in size.
Despite being small, Procida doesn’t fall short when it comes to beauty or things to do. With a colourful fishing village, quiet coves, and stunning beaches, this underrated island is authentic and a favourite among filmmakers and artists for its unique beauty.
The island’s most iconic feature is Marina Corricella, a harbour lined with bright coloured houses that seem to cascade into the sea. It’s even been factured in films like The Talented Mr. Ripley and Il Postino. Procida, located just an hour and 20 minute drive from Naples, even won the title Italian Capital of Culture for 2022, the first time an island has held that honour.
When the ferry arrives you’ll arrive right into Marina Grande, the island’s main port with its pastel houses, the Montefusco Palace, cafes, and seafood restaurants.
Procida’s beaches range from volcanic‑sand stretches to cliffside coves with crystal-clear waters. Some of its most popular beaches include Chaiolella next to Marina Chiaiolella, Spiaggia del Pozzo Vecchio, Spiaggia Chiaia, and Il Ciracciolo.
Be sure to visit the island’s highest point, a historic fortified village offering spectacular views over the entire gulf, where you can explore the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo and the former prison, Palazzo d’Avalos.
The local cuisine is simple yet delicious with deep roots in local farming and fishing. You’ll find lemony linguine that’s creamy and full of fragrance, squid cooked in tomato sauce, and rabbit stew made the Procida way with garlic, white wine and fresh herbs.
Don’t miss the lemon desserts. From cool granitas to soft lemon tarts, homemade gelato and the famous lingua di bue, a crisp pastry filled with lemon cream, this island is a dream for citrus fans.
One person wrote on TripAdvisor: “We decided to give the smallest island near Naples a chance — and it was absolutely worth it! Procida is charming, small, coloyrful, and much less crowded than the more famous nearby islands.
“It has a laid-back, local vibe that made our visit really enjoyable. The streets and houses are full of pastel colours, perfect for a relaxed walk and some beautiful photos. It’s a great day trip if you’re looking for something picturesque and peaceful, away from the typical tourist buzz. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!”
Someone else from Newcastle said: “I visited most of the islands near Naples but this is the best it’s absolutely beautiful, it’s not very big, we walked from one side to the other in about half an hour. Procida has a beautiful charm, lovely streets and shops and is not expensive, I would definitely go back.”
Another person wrote: “Island not yet overwhelmed by mass tourism. Wonderful views, enchanting sea, kind and friendly locals, in short, an enchantment. See you soon, Procida, a magical island.”