Discover the magic of Capri, the crown jewel of Italy’s Bay of Naples, where azure grottos, dramatic cliffs, and elegant piazzas create an unforgettable Mediterranean escape. As travel experts who’ve explored every corner of this enchanting island, we’ll guide you through the perfect mix of must-see attractions and hidden gems that make Capri one of Italy’s most coveted destinations.
From the world-famous Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) to the scenic chairlift ride up Monte Solaro, Capri offers an intoxicating blend of natural wonders and luxurious experiences. Whether planning a day trip from the Amalfi Coast or an extended stay in one of Capri’s luxury villas, this guide will help you experience the best of island life.
Located just off the Sorrento Peninsula, Capri has captivated visitors for centuries – from Roman emperors who built their villas here to modern-day travelers seeking the island’s legendary beauty. Today, the island blends historic charm with contemporary luxury, from high-end shopping on Via Camerelle to serene moments at Marina Piccola’s peaceful beaches.
Visit the Blue Grotto
Location: Via Grotta Azzurra, 80071 Anacapri, Island of Capri Italy
Any visit to Capri is incomplete without a trip to the Blue Grotto. The Blue Grotto, or Grotta Azzurra, as it is known to the locals, is one of the most unique and beautiful places in Capri and Italy. It is a flooded cave nestled off Capri’s coast, and its waters are some of the bluest you’ll find anywhere in the world.
The cave almost seems lit with an opening to the sea and sunlight from outside. This gives the water its incredible blues, making the grotto famous. Due to its beauty and popularity, the Blue Grotto does get extremely crowded during the summer months, so try visiting during the low travel season for the best experience.
Visiting the cave and experiencing the Blue Grotto in person is a surreal experience, and you’ll never forget the deep, piercing blues of the waters you swam in that day.
Go to the Top of Monte Solaro
After you get done taking in the incredible beauty of the Blue Grotto, you should spend the second half of your day ascending the towering Monte Solaro towering over the island. As the highest point on the island of Capri, you can only imagine how amazing the views from the top of the mountain must be. You won’t have to imagine anymore once you make the ascent to the top. You can make that dream a reality.
The best way to the top is, without a doubt, taking the chairlift. The ride on the chairlift itself is an unforgettable experience, as it’s likely the single best chairlift in the world in terms of the views its riders have. From your seat on the chairlift, you can peer out over the endless blue waters or look back towards shore and see the Amalfi Coast in all its glory.
See Related: Best Places to Visit in Italy
Check Out Giardini di Augusto
Location: Via Matteotti, 2, 80076 Capri NA, Italy
Located high atop the island of Capri, Giardini di Augusto (the Gardens of Augusto) offers visitors some of the best views from anywhere. The only views that can be compared are those from the top of Monte Solaro itself. These gardens comprise all sorts of perfectly manicured grasses and gorgeous wildflowers, making them worth a visit all on their own.
But the main reason you’ll want to visit Giardini di Augusto is the views of the island and the sea you won’t get anywhere else on the island. You can peer into the endless blue waters from the gardens and see the rock formations surging up through the surface and the cliffside coast bounding the island. The views here are incredible, and you do not want to miss them.
Relax at Marina Piccola
Location: Marina Piccola, 80076 Capri NA, Italy
Marina Piccola is one of the best places to visit in Capri, especially during winter. Situated on the island’s southern coast, Marina Piccola gets the most direct sunlight of any place during the winter, and its temperatures remain mild and comfortable. You can enjoy paddleboarding and join boat tours in the Bay of Marina Piccola.
The beaches here are free, and the shallow, calm waters are perfect for sunbathing all day and wading out into the warm Mediterranean waters. It’s easy to reach Marina Piccola by traveling down Via Krupp (if it’s open) and catching the incredible views the entire way down. The calm waters and quiet beaches are worth the walk, and you’ll be happy you made the journey.
Shop the Via Camerelle
Any fashion lover can tell you that some of the most luxurious fashion brands in the world hail from Italy. Luckily for any fashion lovers visiting Capri, there’s a street lined with these luxury fashion brands on the island: Via Camerelle. As you walk down this road, you’ll see high-end clothing everywhere.
On Via Camerelle, you’ll find options from Louis Vuitton, Dolce and Gabbana, Versace, and more. So, if you’re into fashion and willing to spend big bucks on some clothes, Via Camerelle is the place to be. Even if you don’t want to spend the money on any of these clothes, it’s still worth checking out just to see some of the most famous brands in the fashion industry all in one place.
Ride Up Via Krupp
After finishing your visit to Giardini di Augusto, head over to the most recognizable pathway on the island: Via Krupp. The famous path climbs the cliffside with unsettling hairpin turns going back and forth up the mountain. Renowned for its amazing views of the blue waters below, Via Krupp has become an iconic landmark of Capri and one of its most photographed.
Due to its narrow hairpin turns and cliffside construction, Via Krupp is closed often due to the likelihood of falling rocks and debris, so you may run into trouble actually getting to go on the adventure. But while you’re exploring Giardini di Augusto, as mentioned above, you’ll get an unforgettable view of Via Krupp and the surrounding area.
Visit the Villa San Michele
Location: Via Axel Munthe, 34, 80071 Anacapri NA, Italy
One of the most beautiful houses in Capri is Villa San Michele. This incredible home is surrounded by amazing views of the island and the surrounding sea, and the gardens are so pretty you could just get lost in them. The outdoor areas’ overhead structures are covered in vines to offer shade, making you feel like you’re in the middle of Italian paradise.
Inside the home, you’ll find all sorts of artwork and famous artifacts belonging to the long-time resident and original owner, Axel Munthe. Spend time inside checking out the priceless art pieces or outside taking in the fantastic views. No matter what you prefer, visiting Villa San Michele is a necessary addition to any Capri v
Hike to the Natural Arch
Location: 80076 Capri, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
If you’re up for a simple hike to see one of Capri’s coolest natural rock formations, visiting the Natural Arch should be on your to-do list. Getting to the arch is an easy hike, mostly downhill and down some stairs, so it’s well worth the effort. Getting back to where you’re coming from is the more difficult, but don’t let that deter you.
What used to be the top of yet another grotto on Capri, the Natural Arch, is all that remains of the cave. The rest of the grotto collapsed many years ago, leaving only the Natural Arch. It is a wondrous structure that you almost won’t think is actually natural when you see it.
It’s astounding that the arch can hold itself up and has survived all these years. It’s truly a remarkable sight to see and one that you don’t want to miss.
Take a Boat Tour Around the Island
If you aren’t into hiking as much or want to add a relaxing adventure to your Capri vacation, consider taking a boat tour around the island. Taking a boat tour is the only way to see everything Capri has to offer since you can only see some of the island’s best sights from the water.
As for the aforementioned natural arch, your boat tour will take you past it on the way to travel right through different archways among the other amazing rock formations of Faraglioni (more on those shortly). Your boat tour can also take you to the famous Blue Grotto and the much less-known White and Green Grottos. Taking a boat tour of Capri will show you more of the incredible island than you’d get to see any other way.
See the Famous Faraglioni Rocks
Three of the most iconic landmarks of Capri are not on land at all but just off the coast — the famous Faraglioni Rocks. These three rock formations poke out of the sea and tower over the endless blue waters below. As mentioned, taking a boat tour around Capri will likely take you right up to and through these rock formations, and you’ll get a sense of their massive size.
The three rock formations are Stella, Mezzo, and Scopolo, each unique. They are amazing rock formations from the sea, and the photo ops they give you are incomparable. Seeing these rocks in photographs is undoubtedly incredible, but seeing them up close and personal is entirely different.
Relax in Piazza Umberto I (The Piazzetta)
Location: Piazza Umberto I, 80076 Capri NA, Italy
Website: Visit Website
You can’t miss the Piazzetta when you’re in Capri. It’s the heart of the island, where everyone gathers to see and be seen. As you enter this charming square, you’ll feel like you’ve walked onto a movie set.
The Piazzetta is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for people-watching. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables and order an espresso or aperitif. You’ll be right in the action, rubbing elbows with locals and tourists alike.
Don’t forget to look up at the clock tower of Santo Stefano church. It’s a beautiful backdrop for your photos. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, there’s a great gelateria nearby. Try the lemon flavor – it’s made with local Capri lemons!
At night, the Piazzetta comes alive. The square fills up with people dressed in their best, enjoying drinks and conversation. It’s where to start your evening before heading to dinner or a night out.
Tour the Historic Villa Jovis
Location: Via Tiberio, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
Contact: +39 06 6723 5338
You’ll feel like an emperor when you visit Villa Jovis. This ancient Roman palace sits high on Capri’s eastern edge. We love the sweeping views of the Bay of Naples from up here.
Villa Jovis was Emperor Tiberius’s main home on Capri. You can see why he chose this spot. The ruins give you a peek into how the other half lived 2,000 years ago. Walk through what’s left of the grand halls and rooms. You’ll get a sense of how big and fancy this place was.
Don’t miss the huge underground cisterns. They’re a smart bit of Roman engineering. The villa needed lots of water, and these tanks ensured it never ran dry. As you wander, picture the lavish parties and power plays that must have gone on here.
The hike up to Villa Jovis is steep but worth it. Bring water and wear comfy shoes. You’ll be glad you made the trek when you see those amazing views. It’s a chance to step back and feel like royalty for a day.
Visit Faro di Punta Carena – Italy’s Second Largest Lighthouse
Location: Via Faro Punta Carena, 80071 Anacapri NA, Italy
You’ll fall in love with Faro di Punta Carena, Capri’s stunning lighthouse perched on the island’s southwestern tip. As the second-tallest lighthouse in Italy, it’s a sight to behold. We recommend visiting in the late afternoon to catch the breathtaking sunset.
The journey to the lighthouse is an adventure in itself. You’ll wind down a scenic path with jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean Sea. Once you arrive, take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and sound of crashing waves below.
Don’t forget your camera! The lighthouse against the backdrop of the colorful sky makes for incredible photos. If you’re up for a refreshing dip, you can swim in the crystal-clear waters near the lighthouse. Just be careful on the rocky shoreline.
While you can’t go inside the lighthouse, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore. Pack a picnic and find a cozy, relaxing spot as you watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’s a magical experience you won’t soon forget.
Spend an Afternoon at Museo Casa Rossa di Anacapri
Location: Via Giuseppe Orlandi, 78, 80071 Anacapri NA, Italy
Contact: +39 081 838 2193
Website: Visit Website
You’ll find a hidden gem in Anacapri—the Museo Casa Rossa. With its color and unique architecture, this striking red villa is hard to miss. You’re transported back to the late 19th century as you step inside.
The museum showcases an eclectic mix of archaeological finds and artifacts collected by its original owner, Colonel John Clay MacKowen. You’ll see ancient Roman sculptures, ceramics, and other treasures unearthed from around Capri. The colonel’s collection from his travels adds an extra layer of intrigue.
We love wandering through the beautifully restored rooms, imagining the lavish parties and gatherings that once took place here. The villa’s location next to an old Aragonese tower gives it an extra air of mystery and history. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of Anacapri from the upper floors.
After exploring the exhibits, you can relax in the peaceful garden. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere and reflect Capri’s rich past. The Museo Casa Rossa offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history and the lives of its wealthy residents.
How to Get to Capri
Ready to visit the gorgeous island of Capri? Getting there is half the fun. The only way to reach this Italian gem is by boat, so pack your sea legs.
Hop on a high-speed ferry from Naples or Sorrento. They run frequently during tourist season. The journey takes about 40 minutes from Naples and 20 minutes from Sorrento. Book tickets in advance if you’re traveling in the summer—it gets busy!
Feeling fancy? Charter a private boat instead. You’ll zip across the Bay of Naples in style. Plus, you can stop for a swim along the way. We did this once and felt like total VIPs.
Once you arrive at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port, you’re officially on island time. Grab a funicular up to Capri Town or hop in an open-top taxi. The windy roads offer breathtaking views.
Pro tip: If you’re doing a day trip, start early. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to explore before catching the last ferry back. Trust us, you won’t want to leave!
Best Time to Visit
You’ll want to time your Capri getaway just right. We’ve found late spring and early fall are perfect. May to mid-June offers warm days and fewer crowds. The island bursts with colorful flowers, and you can soak up the sun without melting.
September and early October are also great. The summer hordes have left, but it’s still beach weather. Plus, you’ll score better deals on hotels and flights.
If possible, avoid July and August. They get crazy hot and are packed with tourists, and prices skyrocket. Winter can be hit or miss—some spots close up shop.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Best: May-June, September-October
- Okay: April, November
- Busy/Hot: July-August
- Iffy: December-March
Pro tip: Book a midweek visit to dodge weekend day-trippers from Naples. You’ll have more breathing room to explore those gorgeous cliffs and beaches.
Where to Stay
Looking for a place to rest your head in Capri? You’ve got some dreamy options! We love the luxe villas scattered across the island. Picture yourself lounging by a private pool with sweeping sea views. Many villas also come with personal chefs and butlers – talk about living the high life!
If hotels are more your speed, Capri Town is a great base. You’ll be steps from the famous Piazzetta and designer shops. For a quieter vibe, check out Anacapri. It’s got a more laid-back feel and killer sunset views.
No matter where you stay, expect to pay a pretty penny. Capri isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every euro. Book early if you’re visiting in summer – the best spots fill up fast.
We recommend splurging on a sea view room if you can swing it. There’s nothing like waking up to that blue Mediterranean sparkling outside your window. Trust us, it’s the stuff vacation dreams are made of.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to Capri can be overwhelming, with many amazing sights to see. Here are some key things to know as you prepare for your Italian island getaway.
You can’t miss the Natural Arch, a stunning rock formation carved by the sea. The Piazzetta (Piazza Umberto I) is the bustling heart of Capri Town – grab an espresso and people-watch. History buffs will love exploring Villa Jovis, Emperor Tiberius’ clifftop palace ruins.
Start your day with a boat tour around the island early to see the rugged coastline. Then, take the funicular to Capri Town and wander the charming streets. Pop into the Gardens of Augustus for jaw-dropping views. End your day with a sunset aperitivo in the Piazzetta.
For a splurge, try the Michelin-starred L’Olivo at the Capri Palace. Da Paolino serves amazing lemon pasta under a canopy of lemon trees. Grab a casual lunch at Lo Sfizio in Anacapri – their pizza is to die for. Don’t forget to indulge in some gelato as you wander the streets!
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