Tourists and visitors, the world over, always envy the rare opportunity to relax at sea while having a feel of the local culture. The three islands in the Gulf of Naples provide a perfect blend of both.
Procida, Ischia and Capri are the beautiful trio of Islands not too far from the Amalfi. These wonderful islands offer serene gardens for travellers and a romantic view for all visitors. More interestingly, these islands are diverse in landscape and activities.
Let’s talk a little more about the green and paradise-looking Ischia Island, the breathtaking Capri Island and the little and unspoiled island of Procida. We’ll also consider a brief history of these natural parks and how you can navigate your way to the lovely islands of the Bay of Naples.
Procida
A small and yet charming Island in the Campanian Archipelago welcomes every visitor with the beautiful and brightly coloured houses that face the sea. Being the least known of the Neapolitan Islands, Procida lies like a yet-to-be-exposed garden. It is a great destination for travellers who desire a relaxation spot free of large crowds.
Procida is the smallest and oldest of its sister islands; Ischia and Capri on the Bay of Naples and are linked to the Island of Vivara by a narrow bridge. It’s quiet and cramped streets stand out and are as charming as the brightly coloured ancient buildings.
Of volcanic origin, Procida has maintained its Mediterranean identity with its rich vegetation and unspoiled sea, providing exciting scenery for even cinematic masterpieces.
The beach at Pozzo Vecchio and the Chiaolella Beach are two beaches visitors love to visit with the latter the most frequented.
The Island of Ischia
Known by many as the “green land”, the Island of Ischia is the largest in the Gulf of Naples and is a very popular destination for vacation for centuries. It’s generally mild climate makes it welcoming in all seasons.
One feature, especially beautiful about the Ischia Island is its thermal hot springs. With a recent count revealing 29 basins and hundreds of mineral springs, this Island has been used for wellness and therapeutic treatments.
Also of volcanic origin, its beautiful scenery is greatly matched with a diversified landscape of valleys, hills, cliffs and beaches. Ischia’s features are well appreciated around the world and it attracts some 6 million visitors to the Bay of Naples annually.
The Island of Ischia is also a nice location for hiking enthusiasts as it offers various natural levels of difficulty.
How to get to Ischia?
The Ischia Island is some 33km from the mainland in Naples and can be reached from the Molo Beverello Habour with a ferry or with an Aliscafo. Using the Aliscfoo is faster and takes some 40 minutes which is half the time required for a ferry.
Getting to the harbour from the airport in Naples is easier using the Alibus.
The Island of Capri
This Island in the Bay of Naples is one of natural beauty and has attracted travellers around the world for thousands of years. A visit to the Island is hardly complete without being served lunch from the famous Piazzetta di Capri.
The Island is popularly known for its great historical background. One of these stands out locations is the Gardens of Augustus which dates back from the 1930s. Also notable are the fascinating villas surrounded by blooms and flowers.
The Island of Capri also offers the Grotta Azzurra at Anacapri, a clean and clear sea loved by most Neapolitans.
How to get to Capri?
A ferry is mostly used to get to the Capri Island from the port Molo Beverello or the touristic harbour Mergellina in Naples. A hydrofoil can also be used when available at these locations.
Any of these Islands can be explored freely by means of private boat tours, guided tours or walking tours.
Your visit to the beautiful islands of the bay of Naples is definitely one for your ‘must see’ list. A long weekend at these natural parks is perfect for relaxation as you behold the great blend of nature and culture while being served delectable local specialities.
You are welcome to try!
Jump around 