Procida

Procida is the smallest inhabited island in the Bay of Naples, Campania, Italy, about 30 km west of Naples and only around 4 km long. It was named Italian Capital of Culture for 2022 and is known for its pastel-coloured houses, working fishing harbour and unhurried pace compared with nearby Capri. Hydrofoils from Molo Beverello (Snav or Alilauro) take about 35 minutes and cost roughly EUR 14-18 one way, while the Caremar or Medmar ferries from Calata Porta di Massa or the Stazione Marittima take about 60 minutes for roughly EUR 11-13. Boats arrive at Marina Grande, the main port on Via Roma, where the lively waterfront has cafes and fish restaurants. From there, visitors can walk or take a local bus to the main sights. Corricella, a fishing village of stacked pastel houses around a small harbour, is the most photographed spot, with seafood restaurants on the quay. Terra Murata, the highest point, holds the fortified medieval village, the abbey of San Michele Arcangelo and sweeping views towards Ischia and Capri. Marina di Chiaiolella on the south-west side has a quiet lagoon-like harbour, and beaches such as Chiaia and Ciraccio offer swimming from June. A suggested one-day arc is to arrive by mid-morning, walk up to Terra Murata, descend through the lanes to Corricella for a long seafood lunch, spend the afternoon at a beach or in Chiaiolella, and catch an early-evening boat back. The island is compact enough to cross entirely on foot, and local minibus taxis and buses fill the gaps. The best season is May-September, with swimming from June, while spring and autumn are quieter but can have rougher seas affecting sailings. Return transport costs about EUR 25-35 by hydrofoil or EUR 20-26 by ferry, and it is worth verifying times on the operator sites. Local food includes lemon-based desserts, fresh fish and the island's lemons, which are among the largest in Italy. Comfortable shoes help on the cobbled slopes.