If you’re looking for crystal-clear blue sea, white cliffs, luxury, and breathtaking scenery, then the so-called “Blue Island” in the Tyrrhenian Sea is the right place for you. We’re talking about the Italian island of Capri, which lies near Naples and is very (really very, very😄) popular among tourists. But there’s a reason why. In this guide I will share with you Capri Island, Italy: 20 Best Things to Do and See.
Capri is truly a pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s a tiny, yet absolutely fascinating island.
And not just in the present, Capri was already a favorite refuge for Roman emperors and artists, who found inspiration and peace here. For many years, Capri has attracted all its visitors with a combination of azure waves, dramatic cliffs, blooming gardens, and a touch of luxury. Let’s take a look together at what to see and do on Capri Island.
Weather, or when to Visit Capri Island
The best time to visit Capri is in spring (April to June) or in autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasant, temperatures are not too high, and it’s warm enough for swimming and walks.
Moreover, outside the main tourist season (July and August), there are fewer people on Capri, which means less crowded sights and beaches, and lower prices for accommodation and services. In summer, the island is usually very busy and temperatures can be high, which can make your visit quite unpleasant.
Capri Island: Best Hotels and where to Stay
You can take a day trip to Capri, but of course, it’s ideal to spend a bit more time here; these accommodations have an ideal location:
- Palatium Mari (mid-range option)
- Hotel Villa Blu Capri (luxury option)
- Casa Rosetta (cheaper alternative)
How to get to Capri Island
You can simply and easily get to Capri by ferry or boat. Ferries from various operators regularly depart from Naples, Sorrento, Positano or Amalfi , or from the neighboring island of Ischia.
You can search for all connections HERE, but I recommend buying tickets directly from the respective company. Also, in my opinion, it’s better and cheaper to buy them online.
If you’re traveling to Capri from Naples, like I did, then three operators depart from the port of Naples, namely:
A round trip will cost you around 45 to 50 euros and takes approximately an hour.
How to get around the Island
Capri Island and its two small towns are tiny, so you can get by on foot, but it’s really very hilly. Therefore, if you don’t want to exhaust yourself, use the city buses.
On Capri, there are mini-buses that connect the town of Capri with Anacapri and other main tourist spots. The buses are comfortable but can be crowded during peak season. Moreover, the entire ride through narrow streets and turns is truly an experience. You can buy tickets at the counter in the port or at local shops that sell them.
Another option is a taxi or scooter rental, if you dare.😉
20 Best Things to Do and See
So, if you’re planning to explore the beauties of the Blue Island, I’ve compiled 20 tips for you on what to see and do in Capri. I believe that with my list, you’ll explore the most interesting places, best sights, and most beautiful beaches in Capri, and thus enjoy the island to the fullest.
Marina Grande
Marina Grande is the main port on Capri, where you’ll likely arrive by ferry during your visit. It’s a lively and bustling place with many shops, restaurants, and cafes. The port is surrounded by picturesque buildings and offers beautiful views of the surroundings. At the same time, it’s the starting point for all the activities you have planned.
Spiaggia Marina Grande
Spiaggia Marina Grande is the main beach, which you’ll find just a short walk from the port. Although it’s a city beach, it’s very popular and, most importantly, clean. The beach is ideal for a refreshing dip in the water, but it can be quite crowded during peak tourist season.
Marina Piccola Beach
Marina Piccola Beach is a smaller, but very picturesque beach on the southern side of the island. It’s sheltered from the wind and offers calm and clear water, ideal for swimming. From this beach, there’s a magnificent view of the impressive Faraglioni rock formations.
Capri Town
Few people realize it, but there are two towns on Capri Island: Capri and Anacapri. Capri Town is the main center of the island, known for its luxurious atmosphere and vibrant life. It’s a place where you’ll find luxury shops, stylish restaurants, and historical sights.
Piazzetta Di Capri
When visiting Capri Town, you definitely shouldn’t miss its heart – the Piazzetta, officially known as Piazza Umberto I.
In this main square, you’ll find several interesting historical buildings. The dominant feature of the square is the clock tower, which is a symbol of Capri and an excellent landmark.
Nearby stands the Church of Santo Stefano, a Baroque building with a beautiful interior, which you can explore if you want a little peace from the bustling square.
Around the square, there are also several historical buildings that now serve as cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating.
Anacapri Town
In the town of Anacapri, located on the quieter part of Capri Island, you’ll find a number of interesting places and historical buildings. One of the main sights is Villa San Michele, the original residence of the Swedish physician and writer Axel Munthe, with beautiful gardens and a stunning view of the bay.
History lovers shouldn’t miss the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, a Baroque building with a magnificent floor mosaic depicting a scene from Paradise.
For those who love breathtaking views, there’s also Mount Solaro, the highest point on the island, which you can reach by chairlift to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire island and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Also, stroll through the winding streets full of traditional houses and discover the charm of local shops with handmade souvenirs.
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
The Blue Grotto is one of the most iconic attractions on all of Capri. The grotto is known for its magical blue light, created by sunlight passing through the water’s surface.
Entry to the grotto is only possible on small boats that take you through a narrow entrance. Let’s be honest, it’s not an attraction for claustrophobics.🤭
However, entry is charged (14 euros) and during peak tourist season, there can be several-hour long queues for this experience, even though the actual stay in the grotto is only a few minutes.
But if you want to truly enjoy the Blue Grotto and other activities, take advantage of the offers from the travel portal GetYourGuide (you can simply book your entry online and cancel it anytime if your plans change).
Island Boat Tour
If you truly want to enjoy the beauties of Capri Island, then book a boat trip on GetYourGuide around the island. Tours often include visits to grottoes, including the Blue Grotto, and scenic stops at impressive rock formations like the Faraglioni.
Faraglioni
The Faraglioni are three majestic rock formations that rise from the sea near the coast of Capri. These iconic rocks are one of the island’s most famous symbols and offer breathtaking views. You can admire them from various viewpoints, or approach them during a boat trip around the island.
Mount Solaro
Monte Solaro is the highest point on Capri, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire island and the surrounding sea. You can reach the summit by a scenic chairlift from Anacapri town. A round trip by chairlift costs 14 euros.
Gardens of Augustus
The Gardens of Augustus are beautiful gardens full of various flowers in Capri Town, from where you also get very nice views of the famous Faraglioni rock formations and Marina Piccola bay.
Punta Carena
Punta Carena is a beautiful lighthouse on the western coast of Capri. It’s also a great spot for watching the sunset.
Villa Jovis
Villa Jovis is an ancient palace of Emperor Tiberius, located on a hilltop on Capri Island. This sprawling villa was Tiberius’s main residence during his reign and showcases Roman architecture and history. From the site, there’s a beautiful view of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
Villa Lysis
Villa Lysis is another historic villa on Capri, built by the Swedish poet and playwright Jacques d’Adelswärd-Fersen. The villa is known for its architecture and magnificent gardens. It offers breathtaking sea views and is surrounded by a beautiful environment that invites walks and wandering.
Villa San Michele
Villa San Michele was built by the Swedish physician Axel Munthe and now serves as a museum. The villa is known for its beautiful architecture and magnificent gardens. From here, breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding landscape open up.
Phoenician Steps
The Phoenician Steps are a historic pathway connecting Capri Town with Marina Grande beach. These steps were built in ancient times and are one of the most interesting ways to take a walk from the town to the coast.
Pizzolungo Path
The Pizzolungo Path is a picturesque hiking trail leading along the coast of Capri. It offers magnificent views of the sea, rock formations, and cliffs. It’s an ideal place for hiking and discovering the beautiful natural scenery of the island.
Certosa Di San Giacomo
Certosa di San Giacomo is a historic monastery that was founded in the 14th century. This monastery is mainly known for its architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Arco Naturale
Arco Naturale is a natural rock arch formed by the erosion of limestone rocks. This natural formation is one of the most beautiful geological phenomena on Capri and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a popular spot for photography and admiring the natural beauty of the island.
Shopping in Capri
Capri is also a great place for shopping, if you’re a shopaholic. Via Camerelle is the main street full of luxury shops. It’s located in the center of Capri Town and is lined with boutiques of world-renowned fashion brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, as well as local designers.
Besides shops, you’ll also find elegant cafes and restaurants where you can relax after shopping and observe life around you. TIP: Try the famous lemon sorbet, which they’ll serve you in a giant lemon.🍋
FAQ
How long does the ferry trip to Capri take?
The ferry trip from Naples or Sorrento takes approximately one hour.
Is it possible to visit Capri for one day?
Yes, many tourists go to Capri for a day trip, but we recommend staying at least two nights to fully explore the island.
When is the best time to visit Capri?
Spring and autumn are ideal, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
Is Capri expensive?
Yes, Capri is considered a more expensive destination, especially during the summer months when the island is full of tourists. Prices for accommodation, restaurants, and services can be higher than in other parts of Italy, especially in luxury hotels and restaurants in the center. However, it’s possible to find more affordable options, especially outside the main tourist season or in the quieter town of Anacapri.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
