What to see in one day on Procida
Procida has been named Capital of Culture 2022. A palette of colors lying in the Gulf of Naples, is famous not only for its beauty but also for the film Il Postino by Massimo Troisi and for the magnificent descriptions of the island drawn by Elsa Morante in " The island of Arturo ". 2022 is a perfect year to visit the island, given the countless events organized involving over 350 artists from all over the world.
What to do in Procida in one day: tips from the locals
Procida is an island where it is nice to spend time walking and admiring nature and the small houses and colorful alleys of the historic center. Locals advise you not to miss the route from Vivara to the former Bourbon prison of Terra Murata.
- Islet of Vivara: this place has a very particular flora and fauna, so much so that it became a protected nature reserve in 1974. It is connected to Procida through a narrow bridge. Visits are only possible with an authorized guide and must be booked in advance.
- Marina Corricella: it is the oldest and most evocative seaside village of Procida. The architecture of this 18th century port is very particular. In fact, it is possible to admire a succession of arches, loggias, domes and colorful facades.
- Terra Murata: this walled citadel is located at the highest point of the island overlooking the sea. It is possible to reach the citadel following a difficult but also suggestive uphill path. The view embraces the entire Gulf of Naples. When you reach the top, don't forget to visit Palazzo D'Avalos.
- Abbey of San Michele: it was built in the 15th century and represents the central nucleus of the village of Terra Murata. It is considered one of the richest churches in Southern Italy.
Do not miss a walk around the village: a good opportunity also to go shopping in the small shops of the historic center. Once there, you will feel the call of a stop, to have a glass of wine and eat the local delicacies in the port area.
The best beaches of Procida
The beaches of Procida are not very large but extremely nice and therefore it is worth visiting them both in winter and of course in summer. The beach that has acquired greater notoriety is that of Pozzo Vecchio, now better known as the Postino Beach, since in 1994 it was chosen as the location for the film Il Postino by Massimo Troisi. The most popular is certainly the Chiaiolella beach. From here it is possible to enjoy a beautiful view of the islet of Vivara. However, the most suggestive beach is Chiaia, with its cliff overlooking the sand. Literature enthusiasts will not miss a visit to the Asino beach, the place described by Elsa Morante on the Island of Arturo.
Where to eat in Procida
Procida has a long gastronomic tradition suspended between land and sea. Meat and fish dishes are cooked according to Neapolitan cuisine recipes, positively influenced by the island tradition.
- Breakfast: for the first meal of the day, choose one of the bars near the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà . Must to try is the famous Lingua di Procida, a puff pastry filled with lemon flavored custard and covered with sugar grains. During the Easter period, taste the sweet casatiello of Procida, prepared with mother yeast and glazed.
- Lunch: a great classic in Procida is to eat in one of the kiosks and bars on the coast. In addition to the typical dishes of Procida cuisine, it is possible to take sandwiches and street food dishes to be consumed directly on the beach.
- Dinner: for an unforgettable dinner, go to Marina di Corricella, observing the light reflecting off the dark water of the port. Try the typical lemon salad with oil, mint and salt. Procida lemons are very particular for their intense taste.
Where to sleep in Procida
Unlike Capri or Ischia, Procida is not a very large island and for this reason there are not many facilities equipped for stays. Remember to always book a room in advance. The largest number of hotels and bed and breakfasts are concentrated in the area adjacent to Marina Corricella. If, on the other hand, you prefer to go comfortably to the beach, you can choose one of the structures located on the Procidano seafront. Very delicious and in any case close to the sea are the innermost structures, often family-run, where hospitality is a matter of passion.
Getting around in Procida
Being a small island, Procida can be almost completely explored on foot or by bicycle. Walking through the narrow and colorful streets is really pleasant. In addition, it is also possible to move around with taxis or public buses from SEPSA. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter to move freely through the Procida streets.
Embark to Procida with an Alilauro Gruson ferry
- From Capri: from the tourist port of Capri there are several trips to Procida. The journey does not take long and it is pleasant to enjoy the view of the Gulf of Naples and the island of Ischia.
- From Ischia: the numerous connections from the Port of Marina Piccola to the Island of Procida are very fast as the two islands are practically attached.
- From Sorrento: it is possible to enjoy the beautiful panorama of the Sorrento coast before arriving in Procida. The connections last about an hour.
Best time to visit Procida
Procida is an island to visit all year round, but the months of May, June and September are certainly the best to plan your vacation. In fact, not only are the temperatures pleasant and the rainfall scarce. For 2022, as the island is the Capital of Culture, it is always a good time to board a ferry to Procida. The presence of artists from all over the world creates an absolutely unmissable atmosphere of celebration and vitality.
VIP places in Procida
Thanks to its splendid panorama and the characteristic colored houses, Procida was the perfect setting for several films. Among the best known is definitely Massimo Troisi's Il Postino. The film Arturo's Island directed by Damiano Damiani and based on the novel of the same name by Elsa Morante was also filmed on this island. In addition, Mr. Ripley's Talent, with a stellar cast including Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jude Law, was also set between Ischia and Procida.
