The island of Capri is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, on the southern side of the Gulf of Naples, facing the Sorrentine Peninsula. It has been a celebrated beauty spot and resort since the time of the ancient Roman Republic, as have other areas of Campania, such as the Amalfi Coast.
Capri is one of the most visited islands in Italy and one of the jewels that Campania hides, making it a tourist destination for both Italians and foreigners. In the 1950s it became a popular destination for the international jet set.
Two urban centers coexist on the island, different both for their geographical separation and for their traditions and origins: Capri and Anacapri. These differences are explained by the proximity of Capri to the sea and consequently to the Kingdom of Naples. The presence of the port has facilitated commercial and cultural exchanges and has determined greater economic development.
The two communities have been in an eternal conflict throughout the centuries, each determined to defend their own rights due to the lack of true autonomy, which forced them to accept the burdensome claims of the administrators sent from the peninsula to control the local economy.
WHAT TO SEE ON THE ISLAND OF CAPRI
Capri is a stunning island in the Mediterranean known for its natural beauty, glamorous atmosphere, and picturesque villages. Here are some of the top attractions and things to see on the island of Capri:
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra): One of Capri’s most famous natural wonders, the Blue Grotto is a sea cave known for its brilliant blue waters illuminated by sunlight entering through an underwater cavity. Visitors can take small rowboats into the cave to experience its magical beauty.
Faraglioni: These iconic sea stacks are one of Capri’s most recognizable landmarks. There are three main formations: Stella, Mezzo, and Scopolo. You can take a boat tour around the Faraglioni for stunning views and photo opportunities.
Villa San Michele: Located in Anacapri, Villa San Michele is a historic villa built by Swedish physician and writer Axel Munthe. The villa is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers panoramic views of the island and the Bay of Naples.
Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto): These terraced gardens in Capri town offer breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rocks and the Mediterranean Sea. The gardens are filled with colorful flowers, lush vegetation, and scenic walking paths.
Monte Solaro: The highest point on the island, Monte Solaro offers panoramic views of Capri, the Bay of Naples, and the surrounding islands. You can reach the summit by hiking, taking a chairlift from Anacapri, or hiring a taxi.
Capri Town (Capri): Explore the charming streets of Capri town, lined with upscale boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the famous Piazzetta, a bustling square where locals and visitors gather to see and be seen.
Anacapri: This quieter town located on the western part of the island offers a more relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. Visit the Church of San Michele with its beautiful tiled floor and take a stroll along Via Giuseppe Orlandi for shopping and dining.
Marina Piccola: Relax on the pebble beach of Marina Piccola and enjoy views of the Faraglioni rocks. This is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Boat Tours: Take a boat tour around the island to explore hidden coves, secluded beaches, and coastal caves. Many boat tours also include stops for swimming, snorkeling, and visiting attractions like the Blue Grotto.
Shopping and Dining: Capri is known for its upscale shopping and dining scene. Browse designer boutiques along Via Camerelle and Via Vittorio Emanuele, and enjoy delicious Italian cuisine at local restaurants and cafes.
These are just a few highlights of what to see and do on the island of Capri. Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, history, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean lifestyle, Capri has something for everyon
HOW TO GET TO THE ISLAND OF CAPRI
Capri is a picturesque island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Sorrentine Peninsula, on the south side of the Gulf of Naples in Italy. It’s renowned for its stunning natural beauty, upscale shops, and glamorous atmosphere. Here’s how to get to Capri:
By Ferry from Naples: The most common way to reach Capri is by ferry from Naples. Ferries depart regularly from the port of Naples, Molo Beverello or Calata di Massa, and take around 40-50 minutes to reach Capri.
There are two types of ferries: high-speed hydrofoils and slower car ferries. Hydrofoils are faster but may be more expensive, while car ferries accommodate vehicles and take longer.
It’s advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as the frequency of ferries may vary.
By Ferry from Sorrento: Alternatively, you can take a ferry from the town of Sorrento on the mainland. Ferries depart regularly from Sorrento’s Marina Piccola and take around 20-30 minutes to reach Capri.
Sorrento is easily accessible from Naples by train, bus, or car, making it a convenient starting point for visiting Capri if you’re staying on the Amalfi Coast or in Sorrento itself.
By Private Boat or Tour: If you prefer a more personalized experience or want to explore the surrounding waters, you can arrange a private boat tour or hire a private boat transfer to Capri from Naples, Sorrento, or other nearby towns. Private boat tours often include stops at iconic landmarks such as the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rock formations, and Marina Piccola.
By Helicopter: For a luxurious and speedy option, you can take a helicopter transfer from Naples or Sorrento to Capri. Helicopter flights offer stunning aerial views of the coastline and are ideal for those looking to maximize their time on the island.
Once you arrive in Capri, you can explore the island’s charming towns, scenic viewpoints, and famous attractions such as the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, Villa San Michele, and the Gardens of Augustus. Don’t forget to indulge in some shopping along the designer boutiques of Via Camerelle and Via Vittorio Emanuele!
TIME TO COME BACK
When planning your route through Capri, we advise you to take into account the times and not be that you are going to miss the boat. Long queues form at the funiculars that go down to the port.