THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE ISLE OF CAPRI

Last updated, March 2024

Dreaming La Dolce Vita

The Isle of Capri remains a top vacation destination for elite travelers, honeymooners, and adventurers around the world, for good reason. From its glowing watery caves, to its gnarled mountainous peaks. Capri’s beauty has something to offer every traveler. Not only, does Capri boast some of the worlds most stunning natural landscapes. But, travelers find it’s real charm lies with its’ people. Who are, impossibly, even more warm and welcoming than it’s shores.

Capri and The Sorrentine Peninsula in The Gulf of Naples

CAPRI TRAVEL
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Not sure how to get there?
Click here for our Complete Guide to Getting to the Isle of Capri and The Amalfi Coast

NATURAL BEAUTY

Beaches, Cliffs, and Grottoes (blue, green, white)

Famous destinations you can see from Capri:
Islands in The Gulf of Naples, Naples, Mt. Vesuvius, The Sorrentine Penninsula, The Amalfi Coast

Capri Blue

Lidos

HISTORICAL BEAUTY

Home of (exiled) Emperor, Tiberius

Ruins, Villas, Capri Bells

MODERN BEAUTY

Luxury
Mega yachts, Designer stores, Perfumes

Sandals made in front of you!

WHEN TO VISIT CAPRI

MAY – SEPTEMBER

The area itself changes during the off-tourist season. Ferries don’t run all routes, inclement weather is more likely, and some restaurants close for the season. So, try to travel between May And September. Ideally, in late September; for optimal weather and crowds.

Though, the island will undoubtedly be packed during the day. One of the largest benefits of staying overnight, is experiencing a more authentic, calming side of the island.

WHAT TO WEAR ON THE ISLE OF CAPRI

While, we have our educated recommendations on what to wear, every style of traveler flocks to Capri. Walking around Capri Town, wanderers wear everything from cotton t-shirts with athletic shorts and tennis shoes; to head to toe Gucci, Prada, and Valentino. Most people, and the people of Capri, lie somewhere inbetween.

FABRIC

When planning what to wear on The Isle of Capri, linen, cotton, lyocell, and silk are all great fabrics to look for. Breathable fabrics are always a good idea for an Italian summer vacation. As natural fibers are more breathable and light-weight, than man-made ones.

COLORS

On the aisle of Capri, the word is luxury. However, both luxe and budget travelers flock here during the tourist season. Wearing everything from Capri Blue to Lemon Yellow with plenty of white, off-white, and primary colors splashed across the isle.

SHOES

Whether spending a day at the beach, or climbing to the top of Monte Solaro, good shoes are needed. For some reason, people don’t talk about this. But, the beaches on Capri and The Amalfi Coast are sharp and rocky. These are not like the beaches you’ll find in The Caribbean or Hawaii. These are slippery rocks that poke into your feet, and not in a nice massage kind of way. Yes, the beaches are still stunning and absolutely worth it. You’ll just have a much better time, if you choose to bring sturdy, thick-soled water shoes. We ended up having to buy some in Amalfi. While, you’ll want some good water shoes for the beaches. As, there is a decent vertical climb in most areas of the island, tennis shoes with good support are recommended for any of the hikes and walks. Slides or sandals are okay for a stroll.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE ON THE ISLE OF CAPRI

THE BLUE GROTTO

No picture could ever do the spellbinding waters of The Blue Grotto justice. It’s something you have to experience for yourself.

The Blue Grotto is a small, natural sea cave on the island of Capri. Travelers world-wide come ito see the water so deep and clear, that the sunlight reflecting in its crystal depths make it glow like it’s been whipped into a radiating siren’s potion.

GETTING TO THE BLUE GROTTO

The only way of entering The Blue Grotto, is by rowboat. When the tide is right, the approved captains, in their rowboats, sit in the sea outside the cave mouth, waiting to ferry visitors in.

There are two ways to get to these rowboats, waiting at The Blue Grotto: by land or sea.

To arrive by land, take a taxi to the top of the stairs at The Blue Grotto. Then, wait in line for your turn to hop in a rowboat and ferry in and out of the cave. Climb back up the stairs, and take a taxi back.

To arrive by sea, take a boat trip from any of the marinas on the island to The Blue Grotto. Where the rowboats will ferry you from your boat, into and around the cave, then back.

Take the option: sea. Why? We noticed the boat arrivals getting priority into the cave over the people standing in line, on the cliffside, in the beating sun… and you get a scenic boat cruise along the way! If you book a joint tour, you can make a day of it and go tour Capri, The Amalfi Coast, or Ischia!

BLUE GROTTO TIPS

The Blue Grotto is TIDE AND WEATHER DEPENDENT. You can check the tide forecast ahead of time for when you’ll be there.

It is illegal to swim in The Blue Grotto. There are plenty of stunning swimming spots around the island, you can use as an alternative.

DAY TRIP! Book a combo-cruise including Capri, The Blue Grotto, and The Amalfi Coast.

FARAGLIONI

Make sure to check out the Faraglioni rock formation from multiple viewpoints around The Isle of Capri. Some of the best known vistas are Monte Solaro, Marina Piccola, and The Arch Viewpoint.
(See Anacapri, below.)

BOAT CRUISES AND TOURS

We recommend taking at least one boat tour while on the island. I know, dramatic. But, it really is the best way to see the island. Some places, like The Blue Grotto, cannot be reached without a boat. If you have a few extra days, Capri makes a great home base, and has plenty of neighbors to fill them up with daytrips.

If you plan ahead, boat tours can be as low as $25. But, once those fill up, options are going to be much more expensive. Demand for boat cruises and tours is high. If you want to avoid paying hundreds of extra dollars, try to book at least 6 months in advance, if not earlier.

If you weren’t able to purchase ahead of time, plan on a minimum of $65 per person for short boat transfers (eg. Capri: Marina Grande to Bagni Tiberio or Marina Grande to The Blue Grotto), up to thousands for tours.

Popular Boat Cruise Tour Destinations to and from Capri:

The Isle of Capri, The Amalfi Coast, The Bay of Naples, Sorrento, Ischia, Procida, Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii.

BUDGET ALTERNATIVE

The Ferry

Keep scrolling, for more of the top things to see on The Isle of Capri!

THE FOOD

Did you know?

“CAPRESE” = OF CAPRI

If you’ve ever had Caprese, you’ve already had a taste of Capri. If you’re thinking there’s no way a simple, world-renowned dish like Caprese could be that much better in Capri vs. everywhere else. You are sorely mistaken, friend. As were we.

From lemons as sweet as lemonade, to sweet tomatoes, wine and more. Over thousands of years, Capri’s unique climate and earth (with the help of its people), have caused a delicious revolution.

Caprese Salad

Ravioli Caprese

CAPRI LEMONS

Limoncello

Aperol Spritz or Limoncello spritz

Lemons the size of your head, and sweet as lemonade!

A special thanks to Lemoncello Cafe, for giving us some perspective on citrus, in Capri.

In the picture above, see those oranges in the back row? Those are normal size, for navel oranges. The limes? The size of an orange. In the next row, grapefruit. Then come the first row of lemons, making it easy to see, the average size lemon on Capri: is about the size of a grapefruit. Those imperfect, bumpy lemons in front, there? Those are the size of a human head!

SEAFOOD

Pezzogna fish, Cuttlefish, and Urchin

ITALIAN FOOD

Check out The Can’t Miss List of Italian Bites, on our Italy Destinations page!

TIPS FOR CAPRI ISLAND

WATER SHOES

Don’t forget a pair of good, thick soled, shoes you can wear in the water. You will need them on Capri and everywhere on the Amalfi Coast. These beaches are stunning, but the rocks are slippery and sharp. Make sure your feet are strapped into the shoes, that they have thick soles, and traction. We cannot stress enough, that your little flip flops and slides will not work. Do yourself a favor, and listen to this advice: BRING STRONG WATER SHOES.

BUG SPRAY

If you’re a mosquito-magnet like me, you’re going to want to snag a bottle of bug spray! The easy-to-spot “Farmacia” is the only red building in Marina Grande and is almost directly off the Ferry Dock. Just slightly to the left.

Don’t forget to save this page to your Travel Board on Pinterest!

GETTING AROUND THE ISLAND

Capri is a mountainous island. Unless you are on the beach, a plaza, or the shoreline, expect to be moving at somewhat of an incline or decline.

Before doing anything, we recommend stopping by the Isle of Capri Tourist Center in Marina Grande. They were a wealth of information, and will share all of the best deals on the island!

Whether you’re staying on the island, or just visiting for the day, you can hire a cab, bus, or walk around the island. Feel free to ask the tourist center, a shop owner, or a restaurant server what the best way is to get from point A to point B, or ask them if they know who you could ask. They are usually more than happy to help!

VESPA ITALIANA

Looking to rent a Vespa or a scooter, on the island? There are two places to do so in Marina Grande. Along with others on the island. Unless you are experienced with driving in Italy, we would not recommend renting a Vespa on Capri.

TREAT YOURSELF!

CONVERTIBLE TOUR

Nothing is more authentically Italian than having your breath taken away by a death-defying cab ride, and the views that come with it. An easy option, is to plan ahead and book your tour or transfer. You can also hire a taxi from Marina Grande. Most drivers will tell you about the land as they drive. But, if you want special stops for photos, make sure to ask upfront. While a simple cab ride is around 25 euros from the Marina to one of Capri’s towns, a tour will cost more.
Cost: 80-700 euros

CAPRI DAY TRIPS | THE AMALFI COAST

THE AMALFI COAST

AMALFI DAY TRIP + RAVELLO

Missed the chance to get one of the less expensive boat tours? Use the ferry and public transit systems to treat yourself to a self-guided day-trip to Amalfi!

Take The Amalfi Coast morning ferry from Marina Grande, Capri to its first stop: Amalfi. Then, bus to Ravello and walk through the tunnel to the piazza. This is a great spot to people watch and grab a bite or a beverage at one of the Cafes. Next, take the path to Villa Cimbrone, take in the view, and wander its gardens. Finally, leave Ravello from the same stop to bus back down to Amalfi. Where, you grab a late lunch; Either under the glowing view of its’ golden church and duomo, or with your toes in the water, sipping a drink on the beach.

Head back to the Marina, and catch the (second to) last ferry to Capri for the night. (See tip below.) Leaving you with one last insta-worthy view of Amalfi, then Positano, as the ferry pulls away from the coast.

POSITANO DAY TRIP + LORENA AND PRAIANO

Rather go to Positano for the day? This is a great alternative for those wanting to visit more of The Amalfi Coast. First, take the ferry to Positano (instead of Amalfi) and explore Positano. Then, take a bus or a private car tour along The Amalfi Coast to Lorena and Praiano.

While, we did catch our ferry, we also were almost pushed into the water at the Marina. And the process was an absolute mess. Try to catch a ferry or two before the last one, to avoid the crowds and the stress.

AMALFI AND POSITANO DAY TRIP

At the risk of sounding repetitive, I had to include this one including both of the most popular cities along the Amalfi Coast. This is a great option if you want to avoid the hot and crowded bus ride to the hilltop town of Ravello, or just want to save some cash. But, we do recommend at least a day in each of these towns, if possible. While, we recommend trying to visit the smaller towns, off the beach. If the beach and coast are your priorities this trip, this is the way to go!

OTHER CAPRI DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS

ISLAND NEIGHBORS:
Ischia and Procida

THE BAY OF NAPLES MAINLAND
Naples, Sorrento, Mt Vesuvius, Pompeii

THE AMALFI COAST
Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Atrani, Priano, and more

Capri Island has two towns: Capri Town and Anacapri. However, Marina Grande and Capri Town are separated by a hillside. So, the easiest way for visitors to get a lay of the land, is to by breaking it down into three: Marina Grande, Capri Town, and Anacapri.

MARINA GRANDE, CAPRI TOWN, ANACAPRI

MARINA GRANDE | CAPRI, ITALY

No matter where you’re coming from, there’s only one inexpensive way to get to the Isle of Capri, by Ferry. And all of the ferries arriving in Capri, dock in Marina Grande. Often overlooked as a point of entry to the rest of the island, Marina Grande has a lot to offer!

Pulling into Marina Grande, Capri on the ferry. Note, the easy-to-find pharmacy is the only red building

GETTING TO MARINA GRANDE

Whether you’re staying in Marina Grande or passing through, the best way to get around is by walking. Keep in mind, if you’ve decided to stay in Marina Grande, the hills get steep quickly!

Most home rentals will specify the number of steps it takes to get to their property. Make sure you’re comfortable with carrying the weight of your bags up 60 or so steps if that’s what your stay specifies.

For more on getting there, check out
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GETTING TO THE ISLE OF CAPRI

SHOPPING IN MARINA GRANDE

Boutiques, keepsakes, and souvenirs

MARINA GRANDE BEACHES

The top beaches on the Isle of Capri! Don’t forget your water shoes!

MARINA GRANDE BEACH

One of the easiest to get to and most popular beaches on The Isle of Capri. This beach sits directly next to Marina Grande, to the left of the marina. If you’re facing the water. Marina Grande beach is split into two sections; the cove and the beach club. In the photo above: The cove is the part of the beach at the middle left of the photo, that looks like a cove. And the Beach club is the area shown in the bottom middle of the photo, with the chairs and umbrellas.

BAGNI TIBERIO BEACH

Our favorite spot on the island to spend an afternoon. Looking at the picture above, you can see why. For the perfect afternoon on Capri, make a reservation for a lunch at the Bagni Tiberio Ristorante. Then request to have your lunch reservation, followed by a beach club reservation of chairs and an umbrella!

GETTING THERE

With your reservation, you may request a boat transfer from Marina Grande to Bagni Tiberio for free (plus tip). Otherwise, it will cost ~ 65€ per person.
Walking = Free
Just type Bagni Tiberio into Maps and it will show you the way. (You even walk past the lemon courtyard of Da Paolino!) Make sure to screen shot your maps images, as service on the Island can be unreliable. There are inclines and declines on the walk. But, there’s nothing too strenuous, and the whole way is paved.

HOT TIPS

Put in a request for beach chairs on the side of the beach closest to the restaurant. The far side of the beach will be in the shade by 3pm, the side closest to the restaurant, by 3:30pm.

There is a “hidden gem” here! A gorgeous swimming hole on the opposite side of Bagni Tiberio Ristorante than the Beach Club. I only saw locals in it while I was there. But, you can easily see it from the stairs when you arrive at the restaurant, if walking from the port. Just ask you server the best way to get there.

MARINA GRANDE RESTAURANTS

BAGNI TIBERIO

Bagni Tiberio is not just lunch, it is an experience. The Bagni Tiberio Restaurant sits on top of the water in one of Emperor Tiberius’ favorite swimming holes. The restaurant’s seating area is outdoor, and every table has a view of the water. Make a reservation for lunch, and stay for the beaches.

L’APPRODO 1980

Delicious, brick-fired pizza, from the region it was born. They have a full menu and a gorgeous outdoor seating area on the Marina. Make a reservation on their website, take your chances showing up, or order pizza to go at the front desk. Staying on a boat? They deliver!

LEMONCELLO CAPRI

Try the lemons! Lemons the size of your head and sweet as lemonade. You can literally bite into one and not pucker a bit. Don’t forget to order a Limoncello Spritz!

MIDICI

One of the first cafes open in the morning. This is the perfect stop for a quick coffee and pastry to start the day,

DA PAOLINO CAPRI

Eat under the, quintessentially Capri, lemon canopy at Paolino Capri. Try and get a reservation ASAP. They are usually booked out a year in advance. It’s important to note that google is mistaken in this instance: Da Paolino ristorante, while beautiful, is not located on the water.

Didn’t get a reservation?

Luckily, one of our grandpa’s favorite sayings was, “no askie, no gettie.” So, we gave it a go, and grandpa was right again! If you call in the morning, (we called at 11am) you can ask the restaurant if they will put your name down on an informal waitlist, in case a table cancels. We were able to score a day-of reservation this way! So… we’re saying there’s a chance!

CAPRI TOWN | CAPRI, ITALY

The ever-enchanting atmosphere at Capri Places Des Flores

It’s bougie and bustling. Designer stores, pricey everything. Enjoy the view from Piazetta Capri, window shop, and wander around the “back roads”. Walk down via to Marina Piccola

GETTING TO CAPRI TOWN

FUNICULARE

There is one Funiculare on The Isle of Capri, running from Marina Grande to Capri Town. It’s a unique experience and by far the best way to get from Marina Grande to Capri Town! Getting a ticket is easy. First, walk to the Funiculare Ticket Booth across from the ferry ticket booths, and purchase a ticket. Then, walk to the funiculare entrance. Where your ticket will be checked. Wait your turn to enter, and hop on when your time comes! Get a spot (we prefer the front car on the left) and take in the sights while on the leisurely, 5 minute ride up to Capri Town.

Don’t know what a funicular is? I would describe it as a standing trolley or an elevator that goes up a hillside. There usually isn’t seating. But, the ride is short, and provides a great view!

OTHER WAYS TO GET TO CAPRI TOWN

Besides the Funiculare, the easiest ways to get to Capri Town are by bus and taxi.

Beside the Funiculare, is the best way to get from Capri Town to Marina Grande. Walking along the staired path, while taking in some of the best views on the island. There are signs that make the path easy to spot at the top of the funiculare.

While, the walk down takes only about 15 minutes. The walk up takes over 30, and is brutal in the heat of the day. We saw many a “hiker” regrestting this decision in the afternoon.

WATCH OUT!
The walking path cuts through the road and there are a lot of blind corners. When walking down the path, literally: stop, look, and listen for trucks, taxis, and vespas speeding by.

THINGS TO SEE IN CAPRI TOWN

SHOPPING IN CAPRI TOWN

La Dolce Vita

CAPRI TOWN BEACH

MARINA PICCOLA

To get to Marina Piccola, take the 15 minute walk down from Capri Town, to the shore. On the opposite side of the island as Marina Grande. Via Krupp used to be the most popular way to do this, but has since been closed due to damage to the trail and falling rocks. Now, the Via Mulo is the way to get down to the beach, with a bus there to take you back up.

WANDER

Spend a good time wandering along the streets of Capri town. You will find plenty of gorgeous villas with leafy gardens to take pictures of

ANACAPRI | CAPRI, ITALY

The serene hilltop town of Anacapri is home to unique boutiques, restaurants, villas, and gorgeous viewpoints.

THINGS TO SEE, IN ANACAPRI

MONTE SOLARO

Monte Solaro, in Anacapri, boasts one of the most iconic views of the Bay of Naples, the Faraglioni rock formation, and the Amalfi Coast. Tickets for the chairlift to the top of the mountain and this view, can be purchased at the tourist center, or at the base of the chairlift in Anacapri. Once at the top you can snap a picture and take in the view of Ischia, The Bay of Naples, Mt. Vesuvious, The Sorrentine Penninsula, and The Amalfi Coast.
Cost: 10-15 euros

VILLA SAN MICHELE

Historical Italian Villa with a lush garden overlooking Marina Grande, The Bay of Naples, and the Amalfi Coast.
Cost: 15 euros

GETTING TO ANACAPRI

No matter where you’re coming from, the easiest way to get to Anacapri is by bus or taxi. If you’re comfortable with a Vespa, this is an option for you as well.

SHOPPING IN ANACAPRI

There were some unique and charming shops and boutiques on the path from Monte Solaro to Villa San Michele. Whether you’re looking for art, perfumes, homeware, or clothing, you’ll find it here! Anacapri is located on the mountainside, not on the water. So, you will not find a list of beaches here.

DID YOU FIND OUR PAGE INFORMATIVE? IS CAPRI ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

Don’t forget to save this page to your Pinterest Travel Board!

and check our our additional Capri travel guide, below!

TRAVELING TO THE ISLE OF CAPRI?

Already decided on visiting Capri? Wherever you are coming from, make sure to check out the ultimate guide to getting there: