Often described as the most appealing island in the Mediterranean, Capri boasts a magnificent blend of natural beauty and charm. The island’s rich history is ripe with captivating tales of scandal and colourful characters.
Located 32 kilometres (20 miles) south of Naples and just six kilometres (four miles) from the Sorrentine Peninsula, the island of Capri is approximately 10 kilometres (six miles) long, covering a total area of about 15 square kilometres (six square miles). The island is divided between the municipalities of Capri Town and Anacapri.
Unlike the other islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Capri has a karst, not volcanic origin. For this reason, it’s made mostly of limestone rocks, and its surface is relatively mountainous.
The hills are picturesquely tattered and create fanciful forms: terraces, caves, arches and recesses. Limestone rocks are covered with beautiful Mediterranean vegetation in the color of red, yellow and green.
Known as the “Emerald Island,” Capri boasts incredible aqua-green waters that sparkle like a jewel in the bright sun.
For more than a century, Capri has attracted writers, actors, business magnates and political leaders.
How to get to Capri
Land in Naples International Airport, catch the transfer with Alibus to Naples port and board on ferry to Capri.
Alibus cost – 5€/person.
Fast ferry – 40€/person for a roundtrip.
There are also many day tour options departing from Amalfi coast and Sorrento town. But I definitely recommend to saty at least one night on the island and explore better this beautiful land.
Where to stay in Capri
For budget travellers I would suggest to stay somewhere near Anacapri. There are some great B&B accommodations near the town. We´ve stayed at Bellavita B&B http://www.booking.com/Share-2roZz0 and it was absolutely amazing stay. Lovely host and beautiful surroundings.
For those who are looking for more central and more luxury experience I recommend to stay in Capri town. There are many great boutiques and hotels in the town.
Things to see & do in Capri
Take a Boat Tour Around the Island
Boat tours depart from Capri’s port, Marina Grande, then continue on past Tiberius’ Leap along the southern shore of the island to the famous Faraglioni rock formations, round Punta Carena with its picturesque lighthouse, and make a stop in front of the Blue Grotto.
Here, those wishing to visit the grotto can climb aboard small wooden rowboats, the only vessels able to fit inside the sea cave. The grotto’s extraordinary optical effect is created by the sunlight bouncing on the cave walls, producing electric-blue water that seems to glow.
1 hour tour cost 18€/person. There are many tour operators at Marina Grande.
Drink a Cocktail in the Piazzetta
Either for a morning espresso or for an aperitivo cocktail in the evening, a visit to the Piazzetta is a must. Here, the clock tower chimes every 15 minutes, while the various cafés are full around the clock, from early-morning cappuccino drinkers to late-night, after-dinner digestivo sippers.
Head to to the Arco Naturale
Just 20 min walk from Piazzetta you will find Arco Naturale. This dramatic, massive limestone archway evolved from centuries of marine erosion and dates to the Paleolithic age. It was originally a large grotto that penetrated the mountain. Absolutely beautiful place, where the smell of pines is in the air, and you can hear the waves crashing.
Stop for a lunch at local restaurant & pizzeria ,,Le Grottelle´´. The exclusive setting, one of the most charming locations on the island, together with the best of traditional local cuisine and friendly service, makes a meal at the Grottelle a truly wonderful experience.
Climb up Mount Solaro with the Chairlift
From Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri, you can can take the chairlift up to the peak of Mount Solaro where you can take in the view from the top, snap pictures, and stop for a drink at the “La Canzone del Cielo” café.
Watch the sunset at Punta Carena lighthouse
This is the only spot on the island where you can watch the sun sink into the Mediterranean.
Try to arrive at the lighthouse in the afternoon, take a dip in the sea, sunbathe for a bit, then sip a cocktail while you watch the sun set.
Walk around Anacapri town
Now considered the island’s second urban centre, Anacapri began its development in the 16th century as an agricultural, forestry and pastoral centre. It has always been less accessible than Capri Town due to its altitude (275 metres/902 feet above sea level), and its distance from both island ports.
But you can easily reach this town by public bus from Marina Grande.
Visit Villa San Michele
“My home shall be open for the sun and the wind and the voices of the sea – like a Greek temple – and light, light, light everywhere!” This is how Axel Munthe described Villa San Michele, his beloved home on the island of Capri.
The Swedish physician chose the most scenic spot on Capri to build his villa, northwest of Anacapri and 327 meters above sea level on the spot where there was once an Imperial Roman villa and a Medieval chapel dedicated to Saint Michael.
From the garden, the view over the Gulf of Naples is unforgettable. Today, Villa San Michele is a museum open to the public and in the summer season hosts a music festival, the Concerti al Tramonto.
Hike around the island
If you want to catch the magic of Capri, you should stay a few days and walk across the island. You’ll quickly leave the bustle behind you and understand why so many people don’t want to leave.
Capri has many wild hiking trails and walking paths.
The Pizzolungo, which comprises a series of steps, wooded trail and paved path, will take you from the Arco Naturale through an ancient forest grotto, past the modern architectural marvel of the Casa Malaparte to an exceptional lookout point over the Faraglioni.
Meanwhile, the Path of the Little Forts in Anacapri is a great walk to take for a beautiful sunset panorama of the lighthouse.
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, climb the 921 Phoenician stone steps that link Anacapri to Marina Grande.
Final thoughts
Capri tempts with many attractions, and has actually only one flaw, but unfortunately an important one – the prices. It’s quite expensive, both in terms of accommodation and food. On the other hand, this is absolutely must see place in Italy. Deep blue sea views and unique island vibe will stay in your memory forever.
Hope this itinerary somehow will help you on your trip to Capri island.
For more Italy travel inspiration check my posts here: https://travelwithanny.com/category/destinations/italy/
Yours sincerely,
Anny