The beautiful little European island that's 'better than Capri' and 'not a tourist trap'

A tiny little island measuring just 1.5 miles with its pastel-coloured fishing harbours is far less crowded than its more famous neighbours. Life in laid-back Procida is authentic and tranquil, and a far cry from the hustle and bustle of overpopulatedtourist hotspots.

Located off the coast of Naples in southern Italy is often overlooked by other nearby towns like Positano, Amalfi and Capri. Procida, the most colourful island in Italy, has remained untouched by tourism, with the town's pastel buildings creating a cheery and refreshingly local feel. Just an hour ferry ride away from Naples the island boasts incredible golden sand beaches that aren't packed with holidaymakers and sunbeds.

Unlike its more famous neighbours, Procida is "not a tourist trap," says Guardian reader Bernie G, instead offering a slice of "unhurried Italian life." Its narrow, quiet streets are full of family-run restaurants, and the island has a thriving fishing community.

Unlike the tourist-heavy Capri and Amalfi, Procida is relatively affordable, with prices set for locals instead of tourists. A pizza costs as low as £8.60, while a bottle of beer could set you back just £4.30. In Capri, a pint is over £2 more expensive at £6.90.

In Capri, tourist numbers sometimes swell so much that they exceed the resident population, leading to overcrowding and strained infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Procida retains a local feel, with family-run restaurants, quiet streets, and a thriving fishing community.

"As people still fish for a living, there's no shortage of wonderfully fresh seafood in the restaurants. A local delicacy is lemon salad, made from the enormous, thick-skinned lemons unique to Procida", says Bernie G.

La Marina di Corricella, the oldest fishing village of Procida, is a must visit. This seventeenth-century port is famous for its rows of colourful buildings carved out of the cliffside that are all painted in their own unique colours.

This postcard moment is home to a mixture of seafood restaurants, bars and accommodation.