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Choosing an island for a Bay of Naples getaway? Consider Capri, Ischia, or Procida – each offers unique experiences.

Competing islands in the Bay of Naples captivate visitors with their allure: Capri, Ischia, and Procida each vying for tourist approval, making it a difficult decision to choose among their unique charms.

Choosing an island for a journey in the Bay of Naples: Capri, Ischia, or Procida, which one to...
Choosing an island for a journey in the Bay of Naples: Capri, Ischia, or Procida, which one to select?

Choosing an island for a Bay of Naples getaway? Consider Capri, Ischia, or Procida – each offers unique experiences.

The Gulf of Naples, located in the heart of Italy, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming islands that are a must-visit for any traveller.

During autumn, the Gulf of Naples transforms into a haven of tranquility. The sea remains warm, making it perfect for a dip, while the grape harvest animates the island of Ischia. As tourists gradually depart, the streets empty, providing a peaceful atmosphere that is particularly pleasant.

One of the closest islands to Naples is Capri, approximately 30 km and an hour's ferry ride away. Known for its paradisiacal ecosystem, Capri is home to cacti, prickly pears, and laurel roses. The island's main attractions include the famous Blue Grotto, a natural cave with almost fluorescent water reflections, the Capri Chair Lift, the Faraglioni rock formations, Monte Solaro (the island's highest peak), the Augustus Gardens, Villa San Michele, the Bagni di Tiberio beach, and the Green Grotto. Visitors can also enjoy various boat tours, hiking, and exploring charming towns like Anacapri with its villas and panoramic views.

Ischia, the largest of the three islands, is accessible in 1.5 hours from Naples. Known for its lush vegetation and one of the richest thermal heritages in the world, Ischia offers a variety of experiences. Visitors can explore its villages, hiking trails, and thermal baths, which the Romans transformed into public baths, as witnessed by the Nymphs' source of Nitrodi in Barano d'Ischia.

Procida, the most confidential of the three islands, is an hour by ferry from the port of Naples. Despite its modest size, Procida offers attractions like the fortified village of Terra Murata and exceptional wild nature. The film The Postman (1994) was filmed on Procida, although in reality, Pablo Neruda's exile took place in Capri.

Visiting Capri, Ischia, and Procida can be done in a day, but an overnight stay allows for a more enjoyable experience, especially on Capri and Procida. Ferries and hydrofoils depart from Molo Beverello in Naples for Capri multiple times a day. Near Naples, the secondary ports of Pozzuoli and Sorrento also offer regular connections, sometimes more convenient for avoiding the crowds of the Campanian capital.

Two maritime terminals in Naples ensure daily connections to Capri, Ischia, and Procida: Molo Beverello for fast hydrofoils and Calata Porta di Massa for traditional ferries. Calata Porta di Massa accommodates travel with a vehicle. From Naples, it is also possible to visit the Pontine Archipelago (Ponza, Ventotene) further out to sea, by departing from the neighboring ports of Formia or Pozzuoli.

July and August concentrate the largest number of visitors, especially on Capri, but the island of Procida retains a more serene atmosphere outside the weekend. The ideal period for a trip to the Gulf of Naples extends from April to October. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a glimpse into Italy's rich history, the Gulf of Naples offers something for everyone.

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