- Home
- Experiences
- Visiting Procida from Ischia
Visiting Procida from Ischia
Given its small size and proximity to Ischia, Procida is an excellent day trip. You can visit the island of Procida by taking one of the many ferries that depart from Ischia Porto, or by booking a private boat with or without skipper.
Visiting Procida from Ischia
Ferries run from Ischia to Procida all year round, primarily because many routes begin in Naples or Pozzuoli and stop first at Procida and then at Ischia and vice versa on the return trip. On Procida, ferries dock at the Marina Grande port, and it's easy to get around on foot or via one of the island buses as the entire area of the island is only 4 kilometers and it is quite flat.
Otherwise, you can rent a scooter at the port to move around the island faster.
A One-Day Itinerary to Visit Procida from Ischia
From the port, walk about 20 minutes to Terra Murata, the historic heart of Procida that sits slightly higher than the rest of the island so its ancient inhabitants could watch the horizon and defend themselves from attack. Here, visit the former Bourbon prison (book a visit via the Comune di Ischia website) and stroll through the historic center to the San Michele Arcangelo Abbey.
From here, take the long staircase down to the Corricella harbor, a tiny fishermen's village of colorful houses crowded together, the most famous sight on the island of Procida. This is the best spot to stop for lunch, and there are a number of restaurants with tables directly on the pier.
Afterwards, relax on the Chiaia or Postino beaches before heading back to Ischia.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
How far is Procida from Ischia?
Procida is the island closest to Ischia; the hydrofoil crossing takes about 15–20 minutes. It is one of the easiest day trips to organize: connections are frequent and run year-round, tickets are inexpensive, and booking is rarely necessary.
What should you see in Procida in one day?
The classic itinerary starts from Marina Grande harbor and walks up in about 20 minutes to Terra Murata, the ancient hilltop core of the island with the former Bourbon prison and the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo. From there, you descend via stairways to Corricella, the old fishing village with colorful houses directly overlooking the harbor, Procida's most iconic image and the ideal spot for lunch. In the afternoon, you can relax on Chiaia beach or the Spiaggia del Postino before catching the hydrofoil back to Ischia.
How do you get around Procida once you arrive?
Procida is just 4 km² and mostly flat; most places are easily reachable on foot. From Marina Grande harbor to Terra Murata takes about 20 minutes on foot. Small island buses connect the main points of interest. At the harbor, you can rent a scooter for those who want to move faster or explore the less central areas. Private cars cannot be brought over for a day trip; there is no need for them.
What is the Corricella and why is it famous?
Corricella is Procida's ancient fishing village, considered one of the most photographed in Italy. Its colorful houses, yellow, orange, pink, and light blue, stack directly above the small harbor, creating a scene unlike anything else in the Gulf of Naples. It also became famous as one of the main filming locations for the 1994 film "Il Postino." The waterfront restaurants serving the day's fresh catch are the best place to have lunch during the trip.
Is Procida suitable for a day trip with children?
Yes, Procida is one of the most family-friendly day trips available. The island is small, flat, and pedestrian-friendly, with no demanding climbs or traffic to deal with. Chiaia beach and Spiaggia del Postino have calm, shallow water. A walk around the harbor and to the Corricella is a simple, engaging experience even for young children. The island's relaxed atmosphere makes for a much less tiring day compared to Capri.
Is Procida reachable year-round from Ischia?
Yes, Ischia–Procida connections run year-round, unlike the ferries to Capri which only operate from April through October. In winter the schedule is less frequent but still reliable. Procida in the low season is even quieter and more authentic, many restaurants stay open and the island keeps its daily life going. It is one of the most rewarding off-season day trips from Ischia.
What is the best time to visit Procida from Ischia?
Procida is enjoyable in any season, but May, June, and September are the ideal months: the sea is already warm, the island is still quiet, and beaches are pleasant. In July and August Procida fills with visitors, less than Capri, but still noticeably busier than the rest of the year. Those who want to see the island at its most authentic can consider a spring or autumn trip, when the Corricella and the lanes are nearly empty.
What do you eat in Procida?
Procida's cuisine follows the Campanian maritime tradition, based on fresh fish. The Corricella harbor restaurants are the most atmospheric places to eat. Linguine alle vongole, mixed fried seafood, octopus alla luciana, and seafood risotto are the dishes to look for. Procida is also known for its lemon, smaller and more fragrant than the Amalfi variety, and for babà al limoncello. Prices are generally more accessible than in Capri and in line with those in Ischia.