CAPRI, ISCHIA & PROCIDA
These three gems in the Bay of Naples are a Mediterranean dream, a trinity of beauty and unique character. They offer everything from imperial ruins to thermal spas.
This archipelago is a vibrant tapestry of myth, volcanic landscapes, and la dolce vita. It is a stunning escape defined by cerulean waters and dramatic coastlines.
Most Popular Attractions
Capri (The Glamorous Isle)
Capri’s City Core & Coast:
Piazzetta di Capri: The legendary main square and social hub, often called “the world’s sitting room.”
Giardini di Augusto (Gardens of Augustus): Beautiful terraced gardens with stunning views of the Faraglioni rock formations and Via Krupp.
Via Krupp: A historic, winding paved footpath carved into the cliff face, connecting the Gardens of Augustus to Marina Piccola.
Faraglioni Rocks: The iconic trio of towering sea stacks that are the enduring symbol of Capri.
Arco Naturale (Natural Arch): A massive, spectacular natural archway formed by millions of years of erosion.
Villa San Michele: Axel Munthe’s beautiful, serene house and garden in Anacapri, with breathtaking views.
Mount Solaro: The island’s highest point, accessible by a chairlift from Anacapri, offering panoramic vistas.
Certosa di San Giacomo: One of Capri’s oldest historic buildings, a former Carthusian monastery near the Gardens of Augustus.
Marina Grande: The island’s main port, known for its colorful houses and the departure point for boat tours.
Capri’s Natural Wonders:
Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto): A famous sea cave where sunlight passes through an underwater cavity, illuminating the water in a brilliant, ethereal blue.
Grotta Verde (Green Grotto): A lesser-known but equally beautiful sea cave where the water glows an emerald green.
Ischia (The Thermal Isle)
Ischia’s Spas & Gardens:
Giardini La Mortella: The spectacular, exotic gardens created by Susana Walton, known for their rare plants and architecture.
Negombo Thermal Gardens: A stunning thermal park in Lacco Ameno with numerous pools fed by natural hot springs and a private beach.
Giardini Poseidon Terme: The largest and most famous thermal park on the island, featuring over 20 pools overlooking the Bay of Citara.
Castello Aragonese: An imposing medieval castle built on a tiny islet connected to Ischia Ponte by a stone bridge.
Spiaggia dei Maronti: Ischia’s longest beach, famous for its fumaroles (jets of steam from volcanic vents) used to cook food.
Ischia’s Towns & History:
Sorgeto Hot Springs: Natural thermal pools created by hot water mixing with the sea, accessible by a long stairway in Panza.
Forio: A beautiful town on the west coast known for its historic watchtowers and the lovely Chiesa del Soccorso church.
Ischia Porto & Ponte: The main port and the charming historic neighborhood leading up to the Castello Aragonese.
Monte Epomeo: The dormant volcano and highest peak of Ischia, offering challenging hikes and incredible views.
Procida (The Colorful Isle)
Procida’s Iconic Views:
Marina di Corricella: The island’s most photographed spot, a natural amphitheater of colorful, stacked fishermen’s houses.
Terra Murata: The highest and oldest part of the island, a fortified medieval village offering spectacular views of the Bay of Naples.
Palazzo d’Avalos: A massive former palace and prison atop Terra Murata, now a striking historic ruin.
Spiaggia di Chiaia: A secluded beach below the Terra Murata, known for its dark, soft sand and calm waters, accessible by foot or boat.
Spiaggia del Pozzo Vecchio (Il Postino Beach): The beach famous for being a key filming location for the movie Il Postino.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Boat Tour around the Islands: The most essential experience. Rent a private boat or join a small group tour to circumnavigate the islands, discovering hidden coves, natural arches, and grottoes like the Blue Grotto (Capri), Grotta Verde (Capri), and Grotta del Mago (Ischia).
Hike the Path of the Forts (Sentiero dei Fortini) on Capri: Walk the scenic coastal trail on the island’s western side, passing historic fortresses like Fortino di Orrico and taking in spectacular views of the sea and the Faraglioni rock formations.
Explore the Gardens of La Mortella on Ischia: Wander through the exquisite, subtropical and Mediterranean gardens created by Sir William Walton and his wife, Lady Susana Walton. The gardens are a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring fountains, ponds, and exotic flora.
Visit Castello Aragonese on Ischia: Cross the stone bridge to this dramatic medieval castle, perched on a rocky islet. Explore the ancient churches, prisons, and terraces for panoramic views of the entire Bay of Naples.
Stroll the Marina Grande and Corricella on Procida: Experience the brightly colored, picture-perfect fishing harbor of Corricella, a quintessential Mediterranean view. The best way to enjoy it is to walk the narrow lanes down to the water and enjoy lunch at a local trattoria.
Take a Thermal Bath: Ischia is famous for its thermal springs. Spend a day at a Thermal Park (like Giardini Poseidon Terme or Negombo) or find a free, natural hot spring like those on Spiaggia delle Fumarole or in the sea at Sorgeto.
Ascend Monte Solaro on Capri: Take the chairlift from Anacapri to the island’s highest point for a breathtaking 360-degree view encompassing the Bay of Naples, the Faraglioni, and the entire island.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: The waters around the islands are part of the protected Regno di Nettuno (Neptune’s Kingdom) Marine Reserve. Take a dive trip to explore the underwater volcanic rock formations and rich marine life.
Hike to the Summit of Monte Epomeo on Ischia: Take a rewarding hike (or a combination of bus and hike) to the highest point of Ischia for a stunning view and a stop at the small, former hermitage built into the rock.
Visit the Roman Villa Jovis on Capri: Explore the impressive ruins of the palace of Emperor Tiberius, perched on a cliff edge with dramatic views of the surrounding sea.
Sample Limoncello and Local Wine: Take a tasting tour at a local winery, especially on Ischia, which has a long tradition of winemaking. Don’t forget to try the local, homemade Limoncello on any of the islands.
Relax on Procida’s Black Sand Beaches: Spend an afternoon on beaches like Chiaia or Chiaiolella, where the sand is a dark, volcanic gray, offering a unique contrast to the turquoise water.
Local Tips & Transport
Inter-Island Ferry/Hydrofoil:
- Primary Lifeline: The main way to travel between the islands and the mainland (Naples, Sorrento) is via ferry (slower, cheaper, carries cars) or hydrofoil (faster, passenger-only).
- Car on Islands: Capri and Procida strictly limit or prohibit non-resident cars, especially during peak season. Ischia is much larger and allows cars, but a rental car is only necessary if you plan to explore every corner; a scooter or bus is often better.
Getting Around Locally:
- Capri: The main form of transport is the local bus network (running between Capri town, Anacapri, Marina Grande, and Marina Piccola) and the funicular (connecting Marina Grande with Capri town). Taxis are also available but expensive.
- Ischia: Ischia has a comprehensive and affordable bus network that circumnavigates the island. This is the best way to get around. You can buy tickets at tabacchi (tobacconists) or major bus stops. Scooter rental is also very popular for flexibility.
- Procida: The smallest island is best explored on foot or by the small, colorful local buses. The island is compact enough for most points of interest to be a short walk from a bus stop.
Island Personality:
Capri: The most glamorous, expensive, and fashionable, known for designer boutiques, grand villas, and the dramatic Faraglioni. It’s the most crowded for day-trippers.
Ischia: The largest and most diverse, known for its thermal springs, lush greenery, and local life. It feels like a small continent, offering everything from beautiful beaches to high mountains and medieval castles. It’s popular with Italian and German tourists.
Procida: The most authentic, quiet, and unspoiled. It’s a genuine fishing island, famous for its colorful harbor of Corricella and was the primary filming location for Il Postino. It’s a peaceful contrast to its neighbors.
Dining Times:
Similar to the mainland, Italians eat lunch late (around 1:30 PM–3:00 PM) and dinner even later (often starting after 8:30 PM). If you see a restaurant bustling with locals at 7 PM, it’s likely a pizza place or a spot catering to tourists.
The “Spiaggia Libera” (Free Beach):
Beaches are generally divided into private, paid beach clubs (Lidi) and free public access areas (Spiaggia Libera). Don’t be afraid to set up your towel in the free section; it’s an authentic way to enjoy the coast.
Capri is more rocky with less sand; the main sunbathing spots are often concrete decks or small pebble coves. Ischia has many more sandy beaches.
Hidden Gems:
Procida’s Terra Murata: Walk up to the island’s highest point, a fortified medieval village offering spectacular views, especially at sunset, and the island’s oldest church, Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo.
Ischia’s Bay of Sorgeto: A small cove where naturally hot thermal water mixes with the sea. Bring water shoes, climb down the many steps, and enjoy a free, natural thermal soak right in the Mediterranean.
Capri’s Certosa di San Giacomo: A beautiful, serene 14th-century monastery in Capri town, often overlooked by tourists rushing to the Piazzetta or the Gardens of Augustus. It offers a moment of quiet contemplation.
Language:
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas on Capri and Ischia, it’s less common on Procida and in the smaller towns of Ischia. Learning a few basic Italian phrases will significantly enhance your interactions with locals.
Top Restaurants
Trattoria Il Focolare (Ischia) [$25-$45] – A rustic, family-run mountain trattoria in Barano, famed for its traditional Coniglio all’Ischitana (Ischian rabbit) and an authentic, hearty island dining experience.
Da Gelsomina (Capri) [$30-$50] – Located in Anacapri, this restaurant offers stunning views, a vegetable garden, and traditional Caprese dishes like spaghetti alla chiummenzana. It feels genuinely local and less frantic than town-center spots.
Taverna Antonio (Ischia) [$20-$40] – Situated on the dock in Ischia Porto, this spot is highly regarded by locals for its fresh seafood, homemade gnocchi with mussels, and a truly authentic, welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Ristorante Graziella (Procida) [$20-$40] – A family-run landmark in the picturesque Marina Corricella since 1964, known for generous portions of traditional dishes like lemon and anchovy spaghetti and perfectly fried fresh fish.
Lo Sfizio (Capri) [$25-$45] – A “hidden gem” a bit of a walk from the main tourist area near the ruins of Villa Jovis, known for simple, high-quality, authentic Caprese cooking.
La Vigna di Alberto (Ischia) [$30-$50] – High in the hills above Ischia Porto, this rustic restaurant offers a genuine farm-to-table experience with its own vineyards and vegetable gardens, focusing on organic and sustainable cuisine.
Ristorante Pizzeria Fuego (Procida) [$20-$35] – Located on the charming Corricella harbor, this spot is perfect for a simple yet delicious meal, featuring excellent pizzas and seafood pasta like spaghetti with seafood.
Lo Zodiaco (Capri) [$25-$45] – A popular choice on the Marina Grande seafront specializing in fresh, traditional seafood dishes.
La Pergola (Procida) [$20-$35] – A local favorite mentioned for its great food, often praised for being a solid, unpretentious, authentic choice on the island.
Il Gazebo (Procida) [$25-$45] – Set in a repurposed old boathouse near Marina Grande, known for traditional Procidian dishes like stuffed squid with escarole and a gourmet take on the local “Zingara” sandwich.
Bar Al Faro (Ischia) [$25-$45] – Located near the lighthouse in Ischia, this traditional spot offers excellent local cuisine and a beautiful view, especially known for fresh seafood and an authentic island feel.
Trattoria da Carmela (Ischia) [$20-$40] – A long-standing, unpretentious trattoria in Ischia Porto known for classic, hearty Neapolitan and Ischian dishes and a lively, local atmosphere.
Ristorante Il Mosaico (Ischia) [$30-$50] – Located at the Terme Manzi Resort in Casamicciola, it offers refined traditional cuisine, known for its high-quality ingredients and regional classics.
Villa Margherita (Capri) [$35-$60] – A beautiful setting to dine under an olive grove with sea views, serving authentic Italian cuisine and classic Caprese specialties with love and care.
Pietratorcia Winery and Restaurant (Ischia) [$30-$50] – A great place to experience Ischia’s wine-making tradition with a restaurant that offers local dishes paired with their own estate wines.
A Paranza – Sea Restaurant (Procida) [$30-$50] – A well-regarded traditional seafood restaurant, known for fresh ingredients and a focus on the sea, located in a picturesque setting.
Da Emilia alla Curtiglia (Capri) [$25-$45] – Offers traditional Caprese cooking in Anacapri with a reputation for being genuine and well-loved by those who seek out quality food away from the main hub.
Bar Vittoria (Ischia) [$15-$25] – A casual spot in Ischia Porto known for simple, classic Italian cafe fare, quick bites, and a great place to stop for coffee or a cheap, delicious lunch.
Ristorante La Cantinella di Procida (Procida) [$20-$40] – Known for its very fresh seafood and traditional cooking, offering a great local experience.
La Lanterna Blu (Ischia) [$20-$35] – A very popular, simple restaurant in Forio that serves excellent local fish and pizza at reasonable prices.
Caracalè Restaurant (Procida) [$35-$60] – Set in a former boat warehouse overlooking Marina Corricella, this restaurant offers refined seafood with creative twists, like swordfish and eggplant meatballs.
La Fontelina (Capri) [$50-$80] – An iconic, beautiful beachside restaurant and club located beneath the Faraglioni rocks. While popular, it’s worth it for the stunning location and incredibly fresh seafood and traditional Mediterranean classics.
Columbus Restaurant (Capri) [$30-$50] – A family-run, farm-to-table restaurant in Anacapri with a panoramic terrace, known for a slow-food philosophy and using local ingredients, even ancient legumes grown on the island.
Ristorante Il Riccio (Capri) [$60-$100] – Perched above the Blue Grotto in Anacapri (part of the Capri Palace hotel, but accessible separately), this Michelin-starred restaurant offers chic Mediterranean dining with a strong focus on fresh, refined seafood.
Le Grottelle (Capri) [$40-$70] – Nestled inside a natural cave with stunning coastal views, it offers a unique setting for a special occasion dinner with traditional Caprese cuisine.
Aurora (Capri) [$50-$90] – One of Capri’s most popular fine dining establishments for over a century, known for traditional dishes with an updated twist and its signature pizza all’acqua, a lighter version of Neapolitan pizza.
Dioniso Ischia (Ischia) [$40-$70] – A well-regarded restaurant that blends traditional Ischian flavors with modern culinary techniques and an elegant setting.
La Grande Abbuffata (Ischia) [$30-$50] – A creative spot in Ischia Porto that offers a modern take on traditional island cuisine, often praised for its innovative seafood dishes and excellent presentation.
Mammà (Capri) [$70-$120] – A one-Michelin-starred restaurant near the shopping streets with a stunning terrace, offering a contemporary take on traditional Campanian cuisine inspired by family flavors and memories.
Ristorante Il Monastero (Ischia) [$40-$70] – Located in a historic, atmospheric setting, this restaurant focuses on creative interpretations of Ischian recipes using local, high-quality ingredients.
Assuntina (Procida) [$35-$60] – A popular restaurant in Procida that offers traditional food with a modern presentation and a pleasant dining experience.
Da Paolino (Capri) [$60-$100] – A famous spot where you dine under a magical canopy of lemon trees. While touristy, the unique atmosphere is legendary, and the traditional Caprese cuisine remains high quality.
La Locanda di Vito (Ischia) [$35-$60] – A restaurant that is the result of a lifelong passion, offering creative dishes based on high-quality ingredients in a cozy setting.
Vico Pizza & Wine Capri (Capri) [$25-$45] – A modern spot near the Piazzetta offering high-quality pizza and an excellent wine selection.
I Giardini di Cataldo (Capri) [$15-$25] – While primarily a Limoncello producer, their beautiful gardens offer a relaxing place for a refreshing stop with unique flavors and house-made treats.
Ristorante La Terrazza di Procida (Procida) [$30-$50] – Offers lovely panoramic views and a menu that often features creative, refined seafood dishes.
Lido del Faro (Capri) [$40-$70] – A beach club and restaurant near the lighthouse (Faro) with a chill vibe and excellent beachfront lunch options, specializing in delectable seafood.
Osteria L’Aragonese (Ischia) [$30-$50] – Located near the Aragonese Castle, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and local dishes with a touch of modern flair and a beautiful view.
La Floridiana Seaview Terrace (Capri) [$30-$50] – Known for its creative menu and stunning seaview terrace, making it a great spot for a romantic or trendy meal.
Un Fuoco Restaurant (Procida) [$40-$70] – Praised by locals for its romantic atmosphere and high-quality, creative cuisine, often highlighting local produce.
L’Olivo (Capri) [$150-$250] – Located in the Hotel Capri Palace in Anacapri, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant is a destination for gourmet dining, focusing on refined Southern Italian cuisine with innovative techniques.
Danì Maison (Ischia) [$150-$250] – The only two-Michelin-starred restaurant on Ischia, led by Chef Nino di Costanzo, offering an extremely creative and avant-garde take on Campanian cuisine in a refined, theatrical setting.
Le Monzù (Capri) [$100-$180] – A one-Michelin-starred restaurant at the Hotel Punta Tragara, featuring Chef Luigi Lionetti’s innovative Mediterranean cuisine with an international flair, all set against breathtaking views of the Faraglioni.
Ristorante Aragonese Ischia (Ischia) [$80-$140] – Located with a spectacular view near the Aragonese Castle, offering high-end traditional and contemporary Ischian dishes in an elegant setting.
Il Geranio (Capri) [$60-$100] – An elegant restaurant opening onto the main road, known for its refined Caprese and Italian classics and a lovely atmosphere, often requiring reservations in the summer.
Ristorante L’Agave (Ischia) [$70-$120] – A sophisticated restaurant often noted for its high-quality ingredients, excellent service, and beautifully presented local dishes.
Ristorante Mammato (Capri) [$80-$140] – A long-established restaurant in Capri known for its refined seafood dishes and elegant dining experience.
Terrazza Tiberio (Capri) [$80-$140] – Located in the Capri Tiberio Palace, offering an upscale dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and beautiful views.
Ristorante Saturnino (Ischia) [$70-$120] – A refined option known for its excellent seafood and elegant atmosphere, popular for a high-quality meal on the island.
Ristorante La Veranda (Procida) [$60-$100] – One of the more upscale dining options on Procida, offering refined Mediterranean cuisine, often with great views.
Ristorante Gorgonia (Procida) [$25-$45] – Located right on the fishing port, this restaurant has a friendly, familiar atmosphere and is a great spot for fresh seafood in the heart of Procida.
Casa Orlandi Ristorante e Pizzeria (Capri) [$20-$35] – A casual spot known for its delicious pizzeria fare alongside traditional restaurant dishes, offering a more laid-back option in Capri.
Il Casotto Take Away (Procida) [$15-$25] – Located in Marina Chiaiolella, perfect for a quick and tasty, budget-friendly meal by the sea, offering simple, genuine, well-prepared food.
Chiaro di Luna cocktail Bar e Gelateria Artigianale (Procida) [$10-$20] – While a bar and gelateria, it’s a great spot for artisanally made gelato from local ingredients and a casual stop at the Marina Corricella.
Capri Pasta (Capri) [$10-$20] – Located in a side street near the main square, this is an excellent spot for high-quality, authentic island delicacies like parmigiana di melanzane and fresh pasta, made to take away.
Bar Gelateria La Ruota (Ischia) [$10-$20] – Famous locally for its pastries and ice cream, a perfect stop for a classic Italian prima colazione or afternoon treat.
La Runcina (Ischia) [$20-$40] – A charming restaurant in Sant’Angelo that often specializes in local, rustic dishes and offers a unique, tranquil dining experience away from the busiest areas.
Osteria da Ghiottoni (Ischia) [$25-$45] – Known for its focus on local meat and cheeses, offering a great alternative to the island’s many seafood restaurants, popular with locals.
L’Osteria del Gallo (Procida) [$20-$35] – Located at Marina Grande, known for very good classic Italian pasta dishes like spaghetti with clams and good house wine.
O’ Parrucchiano La Favorita (Capri) [$40-$70] – Famous for its beautiful setting in a lemon grove, this large restaurant is a classic, though can feel touristy, but the experience under the trees is genuinely unique.
Trattoria Pizzeria Da Ciccio (Capri) [$20-$40] – A popular, long-standing spot in Anacapri known for its quality pizza and traditional trattoria fare, a good non-fine-dining option.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Capri Rooftop: Located atop the Hotel Luna in Capri Town, this bar offers a magical setting with breathtaking views overlooking the Faraglioni rock formations and Marina Piccola, perfect for enjoying a classic cocktail at sunset.
Bar Calise: Situated midway between Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte, this famous and sprawling complex is a long-standing landmark, offering a vast garden area where you can choose between a traditional café atmosphere and a lively bar with music.
Blu Bar: Once a boathouse, this trendy spot in the picturesque Marina Corricella in Procida is ideal for a predinner cocktail accompanied by lounge music, with a view of the colorful houses.
QuisiBar: Found on the terrace of the luxurious Grand Hotel Quisisana in Capri Town, this is a prime VIP location near the Piazzetta for enjoying refined cocktails while watching the dolce vita crowd on Via Camerelle.
Maliblù: A lively beach bar located at Punta Carena in Anacapri, known for its dance music and cocktails accompanying the spectacular sunset, making it a favorite for an evening aperitivo.
Pulalli Wine Bar: Offering a stunning view overlooking the famous Piazzetta in Capri Town, this elegant spot is a great alternative to the bustling main square for a glass of wine or a well-crafted cocktail.
Bar Del Faro: This popular hangout at the lighthouse (Faro) in Anacapri is cited by locals as the best spot on the island for a cocktail, especially for relaxing and watching the sunset over the sea.
O’ Vascio: A charming cocktail bar located on the popular Riva Destra strip in Ischia Porto, known for its lively atmosphere and variety of drinks.
Bar Capriccio: Found on Via Roma in Procida, this popular spot transforms into an aperitif lounge bar in the evening, offering cocktails and often featuring live music performances.
Monkey Bar: Situated on the vibrant Riva Destra in Ischia Porto, this spot is known for its cocktail selection and casual-chic ambiance, perfect for starting the evening.
Maresia: An all-day beach-club lounge bar on Chiaiolella beach in Procida, appealing to international travelers with a super-chilled vibe and deckchairs by the pool for sunset mojitos.
Unico Cafè & More: Located in Casamicciola Terme on Ischia, this welcoming bar is highly praised for its creative cocktails and warm, friendly service.
Malazzè: Built within the arches of an old boat warehouse overlooking Marina Corricella in Procida, this atmospheric evening spot is known for its classic cocktails and different types of Spritz.
Bar Epomeo: Located in Serrara Fontana on Ischia, this bar is situated in a beautiful garden with coastal views, making it an ideal stop for a refreshing drink before or after hiking up Mount Epomeo.
Terrazza 91: A lounge bar in Casamicciola on Ischia that provides a relaxed atmosphere and a great place to enjoy a drink, sometimes featuring live music or a DJ.
Anema e Core Taverna: The most famous nightclub on Capri, tucked down a quiet side street near the Piazzetta. This legendary “taverna” is known for its electrifying live Neapolitan music and an atmosphere where guests, including international celebrities, dance and sing along well past midnight.
Discoteca Blu Jane: A beach-nightclub with a history of celebrity patrons, located at Pagoda Beach in Ischia Porto. It features both indoor and outdoor dance floors and offers DJ sets and live music, making it a landmark on the island.
Ecstasy: A popular nightspot in Ischia Porto, offering cocktails, snacks, and late-night dancing, with an outdoor seating area and an indoor bar featuring a DJ.
Number One: A central and popular club in Capri, often listed among the island’s most lively venues for late-night entertainment near the Piazzetta.
Lucignolo: A dedicated nightclub located in the area of Forio Harbour on Ischia, offering a focused nightlife experience with an indoor dance-floor.
VV Club Capri: Another lively club located near the main square in Capri Town, contributing to the concentrated nightlife scene around the Piazzetta.
Alchemie – Friends Club: Found on Corso Vittoria Colonna in Ischia Porto, this club is a known spot for dancing and a high-energy night out.
Porto 51: A disco bar located on the lively Riva Destra in Ischia Porto, offering an indoor dance floor and a vibrant atmosphere for late-night revelry.
Bar Mojito: Another lively disco bar situated on La Riva Destra in Ischia Porto, known for its danceable music and a wide selection of drinks.
BLANCO: A nightclub located in Casamicciola on Ischia, providing another option for those looking for an indoor dance-floor experience on the island.