Family-Friendly Adventures in Procida, Italy!

Procida

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting island of Procida, Italy, a vibrant gem in the Bay of Naples known for its picturesque landscapes and colorful architecture. This itinerary ensures a delightful visit for families looking to explore this charming island.

### Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Marina Corricella

- Getting There: Catch a ferry from Naples, which takes about 30-40 minutes to reach Procida. Ferries dock at Marina Grande, the main port of Procida.

- Visit: Start at Marina Corricella, the postcard-perfect fishing village. You can walk from Marina Grande or take a local bus. This pedestrian-only marina with its pastel-colored houses offers a serene environment to enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant.

- Activity: Enjoy a gelato while wandering the quaint streets. Capture family photos with the stunning backdrop of the sea and the village.

### Day 2: Terra Murata and Beach Time

- Morning Visit: Head to Terra Murata, the highest point on the island accessible by a short bus ride or a scenic walk. Visit the Abbey of San Michele for a touch of history and enjoy panoramic views of the island.

- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Chiaiolella Beach, reachable by bus. This beach is known for its soft sands and clear waters, making it perfect for families. Rent umbrellas and chairs for a comfortable beach day.

### Day 3: Culture and Leisure

- Visit: Explore the historic Palazzo d"Avalos, once a royal palace and later a prison, now an intriguing museum showcasing the island"s history. It"s a short walk from Terra Murata.

- Activity: Round off your trip with a boat tour around the island. These can be arranged at Marina Grande and offer a fantastic opportunity to see Procida from a different perspective.

### Tips

- Stay: Opt for accommodations near Marina Corricella for central access to restaurants and scenic views.

- Transport: Walking is often the best way to explore Procida, but electric minibuses are available for longer distances.

This family-friendly itinerary offers a blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure, making the most of Procida"s charming atmosphere and natural beauty. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Ischia

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Ischia Porto

- Morning: Arrive in Ischia via ferry from Naples (approximately 1-1.5 hours). Check into your hotel, preferably near Ischia Porto for easy access to transport and restaurants.

- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Porto to familiarize yourself with the area. Visit the bustling Piazza Antica Reggia and enjoy a gelato while soaking in the local atmosphere.

- Evening: Have dinner at a seaside restaurant, trying local dishes like "Coniglio all"ischitana" (rabbit cooked Ischia style).

Day 2: Castello Aragonese and Ischia Ponte

- Morning: Catch a bus or taxi to Ischia Ponte to explore the iconic Castello Aragonese. The castle is accessible via a stone bridge, and you can explore its ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the island.

- Afternoon: Have lunch in Ischia Ponte, then explore the small shops and the picturesque village.

- Evening: Return to the hotel and perhaps enjoy a spa evening, as Ischia is known for its thermal spas.

Day 3: Beach Day and Giardini La Mortella

- Morning and Afternoon: Spend a relaxing day at Maronti Beach, the largest beach in Ischia, known for its thermal springs and beautiful scenery. You can take a bus or taxi from your hotel.

- Late Afternoon: Visit Giardini La Mortella, a lush botanical garden created by English composer William Walton, located in Forio. It"s a magical place with rare plants and spectacular views, ideal for families to wander and explore.

- Evening: Enjoy dinner in Forio, sampling some seafood cuisine, followed by a casual walk along the harbor.

Day 4: Departure

- Morning: Enjoy one last walk on the beach or a quick dip in the hotel pool before catching the ferry back to Naples.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sansevero Chapel (Museo Cappella Sansevero)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Museo Cappella Sansevero, Naples

Morning: Arrival and Exploring Sansevero Chapel

Start your day in the historic heart of Naples with a fascinating visit to the Sansevero Chapel, also known as Museo Cappella Sansevero. Easily accessible via the Dante Metro Station (Metro Line 1), the chapel is a short 10-minute walk from the station. Aim to arrive early to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem.

Highlights at Sansevero Chapel

- The Veiled Christ: Marvel at this exquisite sculpture, famous worldwide for the realistic depiction of a veiled Christ. It’s a masterpiece of marble craftsmanship by Giuseppe Sanmartino and a must-see for its astonishing detail.

- The Anatomical Machines: Intriguing yet a bit eerie, these two anatomical models display the human circulatory system, making them an interesting sight for curious minds.

- Decorative Art and Symbolism: The chapel is adorned with vibrant frescoes and symbolic sculptures that captivate all age groups. The artworks tell various stories that weave spirituality with science and art.

Tips

- Photography inside the chapel is not allowed, preserving the ambiance and the artworks" integrity.

- Guided tours are available in multiple languages, offering insightful narratives that enrich the experience.

Afternoon: Lunch and Leisure

After exploring the chapel, head to Piazza Bellini for a relaxed family lunch. Just a 5-minute walk away, this lively square is lined with family-friendly restaurants offering Neapolitan delicacies.

Post-Lunch: Naples Historic Center

Spend the afternoon strolling through the Naples Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its bustling streets and discover hidden piazzas, ancient churches, and delightful local shops.

Evening: Gelato and Goodbyes

Conclude your day with some delicious gelato from one of the local artisanal gelaterias before heading back to your accommodation or next destination.

This compact itinerary ensures a memorable day at one of Naples" most remarkable attractions, filled with art, history, and local culture, engaging for both kids and adults.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for the Royal Palace of Caserta

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of the Palace

Start your day early by catching a train from Naples to Caserta. The journey takes about 40 minutes, and the palace is just a short walk from Caserta train station. Once at the Royal Palace of Caserta, marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the "Versailles of Italy". Built in the 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples, its grandeur and scale are breathtaking. Begin your tour with the royal apartments to see the lavish decor and learn about the daily lives of the royalty who once lived here. Don"t miss the Throne Room and the Palatine Chapel, each rich in history and beauty.

Midday: Lunch and Leisure in the Gardens

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the vast palace gardens. These gardens stretch over 120 hectares and are perfect for letting the kids run around and explore. Visit the Fountain of Diana and Actaeon and the Great Waterfall, both spectacular sights.

Afternoon: Discover the English Garden

Post lunch, head to the English Garden, an enchanting part of the estate designed in the "English" style full of exotic plants and ancient sculptures. This spot is a fantasy land for children and a peaceful retreat for parents.

Late Afternoon: The Park and Aqueduct

Conclude your tour by walking or renting bikes to explore the park"s broader estate. A must-see is the 18th-century Carolino Aqueduct, an impressive feat of engineering that provided water to the palace and its gardens.

Tips

- Buy your tickets online in advance to skip the long lines.

- Check the palace"s website for special family-friendly events, especially during holidays.

This itinerary ensures a full, engaging day at one of Italy’s most majestic sites, filled with educational opportunities and plenty of fun for the kids!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Naples Historic Center (Napoli Centro Storico)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting Naples Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with captivating history, vibrant streets, and remarkable architecture! This itinerary ensures a delightful exploration for the whole family.

Morning

Start your day at the awe-inspiring Duomo di Napoli (Cathedral of Naples), home to the venerated relic of San Gennaro. Easily accessible by the Metro (station: Museo), this cathedral is a splendid mix of architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque. Don"t miss the Chapel of San Gennaro, where the famous blood liquefaction miracle occurs annually.

Mid-Morning

A short walk from the Duomo, explore the underground wonders of Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground). This 40-meter-deep tour takes you through ancient Greek and Roman aqueducts and catacombs, a thrilling adventure for kids and adults alike. Entrance is typically from Piazza San Gaetano 68, easily spotted from the main street.

Lunch

Grab a bite at one of the local pizzerias. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and enjoying a Margherita at Sorbillo, a legendary spot on Via dei Tribunali, is a must. This area is bustling with energy and offers various Neapolitarian treats.

Afternoon

Post-lunch, visit the Sansevero Chapel Museum, just a 10-minute walk away. Here, marvel at the stunning marble sculpture of the Veiled Christ, renowned for its exquisite detailing that invites curiosity about its craftsmanship.

Late Afternoon

Conclude your day with a stroll around Spaccanapoli. This narrow, bustling street splits the historic center and is lined with shops selling local crafts, sweets like the famous Naples pastry, "sfogliatella," and more. It"s a perfect way to soak in the local culture and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.

Throughout your visit, indulge in gelatos from street-side vendors, and keep your eyes peeled for street performances which often enthral kids. Naples Historic Center is compact and most attractions are within walking distance, making it manageable and enjoyable for a family day out.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.