The Islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida: the pearls of Campania a stone’s throw from the Bay of Naples

The Bay of Naples has always been one of the most popular destinations for travellers from all over the world. And it is no coincidence: the breathtaking landscape, the thousand-year-old history and the unique culture of Campania all come together in a panorama that enchants everyone. But what makes this destination even more magical are the islands that enrich the panorama of the gulf, each with its own identity, charm and unmistakable beauty. We are talking about Capri, Ischia and Procida, three islands that not only make the landscape of the Gulf of Naples unique, but also offer an authentic tourist experience, just a few minutes by boat from the mainland.

Capri: the island of glamour and history

Capri is without doubt the most famous of the three islands, a true icon of luxury and beauty. Already in antiquity, the island was famous for its elegance and splendour: the Roman emperor Tiberius made it his favourite residence, building twelve unmissable villas such as Villa Jovis. Today, Capri continues to fascinate visitors with its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscape.

Capri’s most famous attractions include the Grotta Azzurra, a natural phenomenon that offers a surreal light show, and the Faraglioni, the rock formations that emerge majestically from the waters. The beating heart of the island is its centre, the Piazzetta di Capri, an iconic place that welcomes tourists and residents alike in a classy atmosphere of open-air cafés and haute couture boutiques.

But Capri is not just about luxury: the island also offers enchanting trails for nature lovers and a rich culinary tradition. Fresh fish dishes and the famous limoncello, made from the lemons that grow luxuriantly on the island, are just some of the delights visitors can enjoy.

Ischia: the Island of Wellness and Nature

Just a 50-minute hydrofoil ride from Naples, Ischia is the perfect island for those seeking a rejuvenating escape, immersed in nature. Known for its natural hot springs, the island has been a centre of wellness for centuries, attracting visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the warm waters of its thermal springs and relax in enchanting surroundings. In Panza, for example, is the Bay of Sorgeto, an open-air thermal park, accessible – and free – all year round. Here, thermal springs flow directly into the sea, creating natural pools where hot water mixes with seawater, offering a unique thermal experience. In addition to this all-natural beauty, Ischia offers many other thermal facilities – private – with a wide variety of curative treatments for people’s well-being.

But the Green Island par excellence is not only wellness: Ischia is also a paradise for nature and history lovers. The Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress that dominates the island, is one of the most visited places and represents an important piece of Ischia’s history. The island also offers numerous hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views, such as the one from Mount Epomeo, Ischia’s highest peak, from which one can admire a spectacular view.

Ischia’s gastronomy is also an authentic experience, with typical dishes such as coniglio all’ischitana, a dish of rabbit meat cooked with cherry tomatoes, garlic, wine and aromatic local herbs.

Procida: the authentic and colourful island

Small but with a unique charm, Procida is the island that has managed to maintain a rare authenticity, far from the tourist masses. The characteristic Corricella, an ancient and picturesque seaside village – with its colourful houses overlooking the sea – looks like something out of a postcard. The narrow streets and quiet little squares help create an atmosphere of intimacy that makes the island perfect for those seeking a more relaxing and genuine holiday.

Procida is also famous for being one of the locations where Massimo Troisi’s film Il Postino was shot, which immortalised the island’s beauty worldwide. But the island is also a place of great historical and cultural interest, with the Palazzo d’Avalos, the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo and the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita delle Grazie.

Fish dishes, including risotto with scampi, are another delicacy that cannot be missed during a visit. And if you feel like enjoying a bit of tranquillity, Procida is the right place to take an unhurried stroll and enjoy the essence of an island that has not lost its authentic spirit.

A journey combining sea, history and nature

The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida are true jewels that enrich Campania with their unique beauty. Each of them offers a different experience: Capri with its elegance, Ischia with its well-being and lush nature, and Procida with its authentic character and relaxed atmosphere. Whatever your preference, the Gulf of Naples will provide you with unforgettable emotions, just a stone’s throw from one of Italy’s most fascinating coastlines.

These islands are the ideal place to experience the magic of the sea and Mediterranean culture, and represent one of the most fascinating experiences to be had in Campania. All that remains is to choose and be enchanted by the wonders of the Gulf of Naples!