Capri Travel Guide

Your ultimate travel guide to Capri, including information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat in this beautiful island in Southern Italy.


Introduction to Capri

Capri is a beautiful island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea in Southern Italy, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and luxurious lifestyle. The island has been a popular holiday destination for centuries, attracting travelers from all over the world who come to experience its natural beauty, ancient history, and legendary hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in Capri

There are many exciting places to visit in Capri, ranging from ancient ruins to scenic viewpoints, and everything in between. Here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Villa Jovis: The largest and most impressive of the 12 villas built by Emperor Tiberius on Capri. This stunning palace offers sweeping views of the island and the sea, and is home to some of the finest Roman art and architecture.
  • Anacapri: A charming hilltop village located on the western side of the island. This town is known for its beautiful churches, historic homes, and traditional crafts, such as handmade sandals and ceramics.
  • The Blue Grotto: A natural sea cave located on the northwest coast of the island. This famous attraction is known for its stunning blue waters, illuminated by the sun that shines through an underwater cave entrance.

Natural Attractions of Capri: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monte Solaro: The highest point on Capri, offering stunning views over the entire island and the sea. You can reach the summit via a scenic hiking trail or by taking a chairlift from Anacapri.
  • Faraglioni Rocks: Three towering sea stacks located off the southern tip of Capri. These iconic rock formations are a natural wonder, and can be seen up close by taking a boat tour around the island.
  • Piazza Umberto I: A lively town square surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. This charming plaza is often referred to as the “living room of Capri”, and is the perfect place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Capri

Capri is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Sentiero dei Fortini: A challenging hiking trail that leads from Marina Piccola up to the scenic lighthouse on Punta Carena. This trail offers stunning views of the sea and the Faraglioni Rocks, and passes by several historic forts along the way.
  • Via Krupp: A steep and winding road that connects Marina Piccola to the Gardens of Augustus. This road offers stunning views of the sea and the Faraglioni Rocks, and is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the sunset.
  • Anacapri to Monte Solaro: A scenic hiking trail that leads from Anacapri to the summit of Monte Solaro. This trail offers stunning views of the island’s natural beauty, and is a great way to explore the island at a leisurely pace.

Best Things to Do in Capri: Activities and Tours

Capri offers a wide range of activities and tours that are perfect for travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top options:

  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour around the island to see the Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni Rocks up close, swim in the crystal clear waters, and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to cook traditional Caprese dishes, such as ravioli alla Caprese and torta Caprese, from a local chef in a traditional kitchen.
  • Shopping: Explore the local markets and boutiques to find handmade sandals, ceramics, and other souvenirs that are unique to Capri.

Week-Long Itinerary for Capri

Day 1: Arrive in Capri and explore the town of Capri, including the Piazza Umberto I and the Gardens of Augustus.

Day 2: Take a boat tour around the island to see the Blue Grotto, the Faraglioni rocks, and other scenic spots.

Day 3: Hike or take a chairlift to the summit of Monte Solaro for panoramic views of the island and the sea.

Day 4: Visit the town of Anacapri, including the Villa San Michele and the Church of Santa Sofia.

Day 5: Explore the ancient ruins of Villa Jovis, built by Emperor Tiberius in the 1st century AD.

Day 6: Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Caprese dishes.

Day 7: Relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the island.

Food and Drink Scene of Capri

Capri is known for its delicious cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, traditional pasta dishes, and locally sourced ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ravioli alla Caprese: Traditional pasta filled with a mix of fresh cheeses, herbs, and vegetables.

  • Insalata Caprese: Fresh buffalo mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

  • Limoncello: A sweet liqueur made from locally grown lemons.

Local Beverages

  • Gragnano wine: A light and dry red wine made from grapes grown in the nearby town of Gragnano.

  • Campari: A bitter liqueur that is often served as an aperitif before a meal.

  • Espresso: A strong and flavorful coffee that is a staple of Italian culture.

Where to Stay in Capri: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Capri offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top options:

  • Hotel Caesar Augustus: A luxurious 5-star hotel located on a cliff overlooking the sea. This hotel features a beautiful infinity pool, a gourmet restaurant, and stunning views of the island.

  • La Giuliva B&B: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of Capri town. This guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, traditional decor, and a delicious breakfast buffet.

  • Hostel Centoporte: A budget-friendly hostel located in the town of Anacapri. This hostel offers dormitory-style rooms, a shared kitchen, and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Capri: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Capri offers a variety of unique and beautiful souvenirs that are perfect for bringing home. Here are some of the best options:

  • Handmade sandals: Capri is famous for its handmade sandals, which are made using traditional techniques and high-quality materials.
  • Ceramics: Capri is also known for its beautiful ceramics, including hand-painted plates, bowls, and vases.
  • Limoncello: This sweet liqueur is made from locally grown lemons, and is a great gift for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Capri

Capri is known for its warm and welcoming culture, with locals who are friendly, helpful, and proud of their rich history and traditions. Some of the customs and traditions you may encounter in Capri include:

  • The Caprese dialect: Capri has its own unique dialect, which can be difficult to understand for non-native speakers.

  • The Tarantella: This is a traditional dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations, and typically involves tapping of feet and clapping of hands.

  • The Feast of San Costantino: This is an annual festival that takes place in Anacapri, featuring a procession of the statue of San Costantino, traditional music, and food.

Best Time to Visit Capri

The best time to visit Capri is during the spring and fall seasons, between April and June, and September and October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with fewer tourists and lower prices than the peak summer months. However, Capri is a year-round destination, and each season offers its own unique charms and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Capri

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when traveling to Capri:

Do:

  • Dress appropriately: Capri is a stylish destination, and locals tend to dress well. Pack some nice outfits for evening dinners and events.

  • Be respectful: Capri is a small island, and locals take pride in their traditions and customs. Be respectful of their culture and customs, and try to learn a few basic Italian phrases.

  • Travel off-season: Avoid the crowds and save money by traveling to Capri in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Don’t:

  • Overpack: Capri is a small island, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking and sightseeing. Pack light and bring comfortable shoes and clothing.

  • Expect everything to be open: Capri is a small island, and many shops and restaurants may close during the off-season or on holidays.

  • Disrespect the environment: Capri is a beautiful island, and it’s important to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Don’t litter or disturb any animals or plants you encounter.

Safety and Health

Capri is generally a safe and healthy destination for travelers, with low levels of crime and a good healthcare system. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Safety in Capri

  • Petty theft: As with any tourist destination, there is a risk of pickpocketing and theft in crowded areas. Keep your valuables close to you and always be aware of your surroundings.

  • Sunburn and dehydration: Capri can get hot and sunny, especially during the summer months. Wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and take breaks in the shade when needed.

Health in Capri

  • Medical care: Capri has several hospitals and medical clinics that offer quality care for travelers in case of emergency.

  • Food and water: The tap water in Capri is safe to drink, and there are many restaurants and street vendors that offer delicious and safe food. However, it’s always a good idea to use common sense when eating and drinking, and to avoid any food or water that seems questionable.

Getting to Capri: Transportation Options and Logistics

Capri is accessible by several modes of transportation, including ferries, buses, and taxis. Here are some of the top options:

Airports Near Capri

  • Naples International Airport: This is the closest major international airport to Capri, located about 40 kilometers away from the island. You can reach Capri from the airport by taking a taxi or a bus to the ferry port in Naples, and then a ferry to Capri.

  • Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport: Another airport near Capri, located about 70 kilometers away from the island. This airport is smaller and less crowded than Naples International Airport, but offers fewer transportation options to Capri.

Bus Stations Near Capri

  • Naples bus station: This is the main bus station in Naples, located near the train station and the ferry port. From here, you can take a bus to the ferry port and then a ferry to Capri.

  • Sorrento bus station: Sorrento is a popular tourist destination located near Capri, and is home to a major bus station that offers regular connections to Naples and other nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Private transfers: If you prefer to avoid the hassle of public transportation, you can arrange a private transfer from Naples or Sorrento to Capri.

  • Helicopter: If you’re looking for a luxurious and scenic way to reach Capri, you can book a helicopter tour from Naples, Sorrento, or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Capri

Capri is a small island, and most of its attractions and towns can be easily reached on foot or by public transportation. Here are some of the top transportation options:

  • Funicular: A steep railway that connects the town of Capri to the harbor at Marina Grande. This funicular offers stunning views of the sea and the island, and is a popular photo spot.

  • Bus: The island of Capri is served by a network of public buses that connect the towns of Capri and Anacapri, as well as other parts of the island.

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available on the island, and can be a convenient way to reach specific destinations or travel longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Capri: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Capri is surrounded by several other beautiful destinations that are worth visiting during your trip to Italy. Here are some of the top options:

  • Sorrento: A charming seaside town located on the mainland, just a short ferry ride away from Capri. Sorrento is known for its beautiful beaches, historic center, and delicious food and wine.

  • Pompeii: An ancient Roman city buried by a volcanic eruption in the 1st century AD. This incredibly well-preserved site offers a fascinating glimpse into Italian history and culture.

  • Amalfi Coast: A stunning stretch of coastline located south of Naples, known for its colorful villages, crystal clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. This area is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and scenic drives.

Conclusion

Capri is a beautiful and welcoming destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the ruins of ancient Rome, or indulge in delicious food and wine, Capri has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan the perfect trip to this idyllic island in Southern Italy.

The Marina Grande, Capri The Marina Grande, Capri The Faraglioni Rocks The Faraglioni Rocks Via Krupp Via Krupp Casa Rossa, Anacapri Casa Rossa, Anacapri