Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Procida
POP 10,700
The Bay of Naples' smallest island is also its best-kept secret. Be sure to dig out your
paintbox; this soulful blend of hidden lemon groves, weathered fishermen and pastel-hued
houses is memorably picturesque. Mercifully located off the mass-tourist radar, Procida is
like the original Portofino prototype and has the benefit of being refreshingly real. August
aside - when beach-bound mainlanders flock to its shores - its narrow sun-bleached
streets are the domain of the locals: wiry young boys clutch fishing rods, weary mothers
push prams and wizened old seamen swap tales of malaise. Here, the hotels are smaller,
fewer waiters speak broken German and the island's welcome is untainted by too much
tourism.
At Marina Grande, tumbledown buildings in hues of pinks, whites and yellow crowd
the waterfront as an evocative first introduction to the island. Fishermen mend their nets
under laundry hung out to dry, while waiters serve the catch of the day in well-worn res-
taurants.
Even in the height of summer, Procida doesn't attract the number of tourists welcomed
by its more famous neighbours. This is a small island, ideal for those seeking to escape
the crowds.
Sights & Activities
If you have the time, Procida is an ideal island to explore on foot. The most compelling
areas (and where you will also find most of the hotels, bars and restaurants) are Marina
Grande, Marina Corricella and Marina di Chiaiolella. Beaches are not plentiful here, apart
from the Lido di Procida where, aside from August, you shouldn't have any trouble find-
ing some towel space on the sand.
