Capri Ischia Procida: Comparison of the Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands: Capri, Ischia, Procida Compared

One of the great dilemmas for those organizingvacations in Naplesis choosing which island in the gulf to visit. Capri, Ischia, and Procida are all magnificent, but very different from each other in terms of atmosphere, costs, landscapes, and type of experience. You can visit all three if you have 5-7 days, but if you have little time (1-2 days available for the islands), you have to choose. This guide helps you understand which island is right for you, comparing beaches, transportation, prices, attractions, and travel times from Naples.

Quick Overview: Capri, Ischia, Procida in a Few Words

Capri: Glamour, Crowds, and Postcard Landscapes

Why choose Capri

Capri is famous worldwide for the Faraglioni, the Piazzetta, the caves, and luxury. If you love fashion, exclusive venues, and want to see one of the most iconic views of the Mediterranean, Capri is for you. During theholidays in Naples, Capri is the most popular excursion, but also the most expensive and crowded.

How to get from Naples

• Ferry/fast boat from:Molo Beverello

• Duration:50 minutes (fast boat) / 80 minutes (slow ferry)

• Round trip cost:22-25€ (fast boat) / 18€ (ferry)

• Frequency:every 20-40 minutes in high season

What to do in one day in Capri

1. As soon as you arrive,funicularfrom Marina Grande to the Piazzetta (2.50€)

2. Walk to theGardens of Augustus(free) for the view of the Faraglioni

3. Via Camerelle(luxury shopping)

4. Optional:Blue Grotto(14€ plus 2€ for the rower). Note: endless lines in high season. It's better to book a boat tour that includes it.

5. Lunch in Capri town (expensive: 30-50€ per person for a simple meal)

6. Afternoon: bus to Anacapri (2€) andchairlift to Mount Solaro(12€ round trip) – spectacular view

7. Return to Marina Grande and hydrofoil to Naples (last run 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM)

Beaches in Capri

• Marina Piccola:the most famous, paid (sunbed 20-30€) or free on the rocks.

• Bagni di Tiberio:reachable by taxi boat (5€) from Marina Grande.

• Free beach of Punta Carena:the only real free beach, but far away.

Average daily costs in Capri (per person)

• Transport Naples-Capri round trip: 22€

• Funicular and internal buses: 10€

• Lunch (pizza + water): 25€

• Entries (chairlift, cave): 26€

• Total for the day:about 90-110€ (excluding dinner)

Disadvantages of Capri

• Very crowded (from June to September it feels like a shopping mall)

• Very high costs (a coffee at a table in Piazzetta costs 8€)

• Queues for the funicular, the blue grotto, and buses

• Not suitable for those seeking tranquility

Ischia: Thermal Baths, Gardens, and Relaxing Holidays

Why choose Ischia

Ischia is the largest island in the gulf and the only one with real sandy beaches and natural thermal springs. It is perfect for those seeking relaxation, wellness, and wanting to spend more than one day on the island. During theholidays in Naples, Ischia is ideal for families and couples who do not like the crowds of Capri.

How to get from Naples

• Ferry/hydrofoil from:Molo Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa

• Duration:50 minutes (hydrofoil) / 90 minutes (slow ferry)

• Cost round trip:18-22€ (hydrofoil) / 15€ (ferry)

• Frequency:every 30-60 minutes

What to do in Ischia (in 1 or 2 days)

Day 1:

• Morning:Aragonese Castlein Ischia Ponte (12€) – 2 hours of visiting

• Lunch: seafood restaurant in Ischia Ponte

• Afternoon:La Mortella Gardens(12€) – created by William Walton, one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy

• Evening: stroll along the waterfront of Ischia Porto

Day 2 (if you have time):

• Morning:Negombo Thermal Park(35€) orPoseidon Gardens(40€) – thermal pools, saunas, hot tubs

• Afternoon: Maronti beach(black volcanic sand, warm waters from submerged springs)Beaches in Ischia

Maronti (Barano):

• the longest beach (3 km), dark sand, thermal waters. Sunbeds 15-25€.Citara (Forio):

• equipped beach, near thermal parks.Fishermen's Beach (Ischia Ponte):

• small, free, with a view of the castle.San Montano Bay (Lacco Ameno):

• very shallow water, ideal for children.Average daily costs in Ischia (per person)

Transport Naples-Ischia round trip: 20€

• Local buses (daily): 6€

• Lunch (trattoria): 25€

• Entrance to thermal park: 35€

• Total for the day:

• Totale giornata:about 85€ (without overnight stay)

Disadvantages of Ischia

• The island is large, bus travel takes time

• The thermal parks are expensive (35-45€)

• Very crowded in August

• Less “Instagrammable” than Capri (sweeter landscapes)

Procida: Authenticity, Colors, and Low Cost

Why choose Procida

Procida is the smallest and least famous of the three islands, but that is exactly why it is the most authentic. It was the Italian Capital of Culture in 2022, and is known for its pastel-colored houses, the Marina Corricella harbor, and its free beaches. During theholidays in Naples, Procida is the ideal choice for those on a budget, who love photography, and want to escape the crowds.

How to get from Naples

• Ferry/hydrofoil from:Molo Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa

• Duration:40 minutes (fast ferry) / 60 minutes (ferry)

• Round trip cost:15€ (fast ferry) / 12€ (ferry)

• Frequency:every 40-90 minutes

What to do in one day in Procida

1. Marina Corricella(colorful harbor): walk and take photos. It is the heart of the island.

2. Climb toTerra Murata(medieval fortress): the lowest view of the entire gulf. Free entry.

3. Abbey of San Michele(1€)

4. Lunch at Marina Corricella (trattoria La Lampara: 20-25€ per person for fresh fish)

5. Afternoon: swim at theChiaia beach(free, light sand) or to theCiraccio beach(more equipped)

6. Walk among the colorful houses ofVia San Rocco

7. Return to Naples

Beaches in Procida

• Chiaia:free beach, light sand, clear water. The best for swimming.

• Ciraccio:longer, with beach establishments (sunbed 10-15€) and free sections.

• Pozzo Vecchio:small and sheltered beach, used for the film “The Postman.”

Average daily costs in Procida (per person)

• Transport Naples-Procida round trip: 15€

• Internal buses (not needed, you can walk): 0€

• Lunch (trattoria): 20€

• Entry fees (Abbey, fortress): 2€

• Total for the day:about 40-50€

Disadvantages of Procida

• Fewer “big” attractions (no famous caves, no thermal parks)

• You can explore in half a day

• Few high-quality restaurants

• Still crowded in August (but less than Capri)

Summary Table: Which Island to Choose Based on Your Profile

Can I visit more islands in one day? Not recommended

Technically yes, but it's a tiring tour: Naples → Capri → Ischia → Naples is possible with hydrofoils (leaving very early), but you will spend more time at sea than on the islands. Additionally, combined tickets do not exist. It's better to dedicate one day to one island, and another day to another.

Transportation tips between the islands

• From Capri to Ischia:direct hydrofoils (40 minutes, €15) – 2-3 trips a day.

• From Ischia to Procida:ferry (20 minutes, €6) – frequent.

• From Procida to Capri:no direct connection (you have to return to Naples).

FAQ

What is the cheapest island in the Gulf of Naples?

Procida. Transportation, food, and beaches cost much less than in Capri or Ischia.

How long does it take to visit Capri?

A full day is enough to see the highlights (Piazzetta, Gardens of Augustus, Mount Solaro). The Blue Grotto requires extra time.

Ischia or Capri for a 3-day vacation?

Ischia: more space, thermal baths, beaches, and less stress. Capri is beautiful but after 2 days it can feel repetitive and expensive.

Can I take my car to Procida?

Yes, by ferry that carries cars (cost 40€ round trip). But it's not necessary: the island is best explored on foot or by rented scooter.

Which is the most beautiful beach of the three islands?

I Maronti in Ischia (black sand and warm waters) and La Chiaia in Procida (light sand and clear water). Capri doesn't have real sandy beaches.

On which island is the food better?

Ischia for its peasant tradition (rabbit Ischitana, local wines). Procida for fresh fish at fair prices. Capri for Michelin-starred restaurants (very high costs).

Are the islands visitable in winter?

Yes, but many hotels and restaurants close from November to March. Ferries are reduced. Ideal for walks without crowds.

One day for each island

Choosing between Capri, Ischia, and Procida depends on your travel style, budget, and the time available during yourvacation in Naples. Capri is a daydream for those who love luxury and iconic views, but it comes with high prices and craziness. Ischia is a treat for body and soul, perfect for those seeking wellness and nature. Procida is an authentic and low-cost gem, ideal for those who want to breathe in true island life. If you have 3 days for the islands, my advice is: one day in Procida (for authenticity), one day in Ischia (for relaxation), and if you really want, one day in Capri (for the spectacle). Whatever your choice, the Gulf of Naples will give you unforgettable emotions.

For a complete overview of how to integrate the islands into your trip, with updated ferry schedules and tips on where to stay in Naples, consult the ultimate guide to best organize your experience in the Gulf of Naples.

Review date:April 16, 2026