Capri, Ischia, and Procida: Which Italian Island is Right for You?

A well-planned trip can easily encompass time on each island, but if you're looking to focus on a single destination, knowing exactly what you want from your vacation is key.

The Best Island For a Quick Trip: Procida

If you're only in the area briefly and want to see as much of your chosen island as possible, opt for Procida, the smallest of the three islands. In terms of ground to cover, this island can be tackled in a single day. While you won't have time to experience everything the culture has to offer, a day tour will allow you to hit most of the well-known spots. This is also the stop for foodies interested in the famous Procida lemon, which features in everything from the savory insalata di limone, sliced lemons tossed in a light dressing, to the sweet lingue di Procida, the island's famous lemon cream pastry.

If you want to know exactly how to spend your day on Procida, check out our need-to-know travel guide to Procida’s major sights and activities.

The Best Island For Luxury Experiences: Capri

Capri is undoubtedly the most well-recognized island of the three. Known as a popular haunt of old Hollywood elite (think: Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn), the island's star-studded reputation is perfect for travelers who want to relax in style. Capri is ideal for those with an enthusiasm for fashion, as the main shopping street—Via Camarelle—is lined with luxury brands and high-end Italian retailers. Furthermore, while each island produces excellent limoncello, there's no doubt that bottles of the citrus liqueur produced on Capri are reknown worldwide for their premium quality. For first-time visitors to Italy who want a classic experience, the iconic shores of Capri are your best bet.

For a complete guide to how to spend your time on Capri, head over to our one-stop Capri travel guide.

The Best Island For a Long Vacation: Ischia

If you plan to stay on an island for more than a few days, then Ischia is the right choice. The largest of the three islands, Ischia has plenty to explore. The beaches here are sandier than the rocky coasts of Capri and more abundant than the limited options of Procida, making it the best choice if you want to squeeze in a few beach days. It's also the perfect home base for longer itineraries, as easy-access ferries allow travelers to hop over to Procida, Capri, or the Amalfi Coast for a day trip.

To plan your Ischian vacation start to finish, follow our foolproof guide to Ischia travel.

Thankfully the climate is the one thing that doesn't vary from island to island. With a single packing list, you'll be ready to set sail towards whichever destination you choose.

Tourist season on the islands starts in late spring, peaking in summer and continuing through mid-October. Visiting in the early summer will give you a classic island experience when all the shops and restaurants are in full swing and the islands are bustling with fellow tourists eager to explore.

Although summer is a stunning time to visit the island, locals warn that it can get overcrowded in August, which is a popular vacation month for Italian locals to visit the islands. If you want a similar experience in weather and activities but with fewer crowds, try traveling in late spring or early autumn instead.

Visiting the islands in winter is not for everyone, as the weather is wet and less predictable, and many businesses, restaurants, and hotels close down for the season. This season is best suited for travelers seeking to enjoy the island in solitude, content to limit their itinerary to mostly enjoying the scenery and the amenities of their hotel.