The island of Capri is on everyone’s Italian bucket list. Nestled in the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Capri Island is a Mediterranean gem that has captivated travelers for centuries with its breathtaking beauty and timeless charm. From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in a landscape where rugged cliffs, lush gardens, and crystal-clear waters create an enchanting escape from the everyday hustle. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant Piazzetta, marveling at the mystical Blue Grotto, or savoring the island’s world-renowned cuisine, Capri offers an unforgettable blend of natural wonders and sophisticated allure.
aI came to Capri as part of a greater trip through Naples and the Amalfi coast. Whether you plan on making a day trip to Capri, or spending more nights, this post will help you plan your trip to this wonderful island.
Is Capri overrated and worth visiting?
Capri Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Italy. It’s easily one of the poshest and fanciest places Italy has to offer. In fact, it’s been an island for the rich and famous for many centuries now. Don’t let that deter you though because there’s still plenty of ways to make your trip not break the bank.
The greater question, however, is if Capri is overrated? Capri island is a huge tourist attraction and draws in insane crowds throughout the year. Italians and foreigners alike flock to this island especially as a weekend trip from Naples. In the summer high season, the ferries book out well in advance, and the towns of Capri and Anacapri are extremely packed. In fact, I visited Capri in the fall of 2020 during the height of COVID-19 and it was still relatively busy.
With that said, I think Capri is an extremely beautiful island with stunning views, beautiful architecture, and wonderful natural sights. I do think it is worth visiting especially if you can stay overnight. The day trippers leave in the later afternoon and you can have a bit of reprieve on the island.
Where is Capri Island?
Capri Island is located about 20km off the coast of Naples, Italy. It’s an island that is easily accessible by ferry from Naples (more on that in the next section). It’s also located right across from the Amalfi coast with its beautiful villages.
Capri is a popular day trip from Naples or the Amalfi coast. Conversely, you can combine all of them into one big itinerary which is what I did with my Naples, Capri, and Amalfi Coast itinerary
Getting to Capri Island
Getting to Capri Island is an adventure in itself, with several transportation options that cater to different preferences and starting points. Whether you’re traveling from within Italy or from abroad, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach this Mediterranean gem.
By Air
Naples International Airport (NAP) is the closest major airport to Capri. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to the port of Naples. The journey from the airport to the port takes approximately 20-30 minutes by taxi and about 40 minutes by bus. Naples is also worth a few nights in itself as it is the birthplace of pizza!
Alternatively, Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is another option. From Rome, you can take a train to Naples, which brings us to the next mode of transport.
By Train
If you’re already in Italy, taking a train to Naples is a convenient option. High-speed trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo connect Naples with major cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan. The journey from Rome to Naples takes about 1-1.5 hours on a high-speed train.
Upon arriving at Napoli Centrale, Naples’ main train station, you can take a taxi or the Alibus shuttle service to the port.
By Ferry or Hydrofoil
Once you reach the port of Naples, you have several options for getting to Capri by sea. Ferries and hydrofoils operated by companies like SNAV, Alilauro, and Caremar run regular services to Capri.
Ferry: The ferry is a slower but more scenic option, taking about 80 minutes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely journey and want to soak in the views of the Bay of Naples.
Hydrofoil: The hydrofoil is a faster option, taking about 40-50 minutes. It’s ideal if you’re short on time and prefer a quicker trip.
Both ferries and hydrofoils offer comfortable seating, and some even have outdoor decks for enjoying the sea breeze. The ferry port can be a bit chaotic as there are many boats that leave from Naples including ferries, cruise boats, and private yachts. Ask your hotel, Uber driver, or just someone in the ferry terminal that can point you in the direction of the Capri and Amalfi coast ferries (they are in the same areas).
By Private Boat
For a more luxurious experience, you can hire a private boat or a water taxi from Naples, Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast. This option allows for a personalized schedule and often includes a scenic tour of the coastline and the chance to stop at secluded coves and beaches along the way.
From Sorrento
If you’re staying in Sorrento, getting to Capri is straightforward. Ferries and hydrofoils from Sorrento’s Marina Piccola port run frequently, with a travel time of about 20-30 minutes. The proximity of Sorrento to Capri makes it a popular day-trip option.
From the Amalfi Coast
For those on the Amalfi Coast, ferries to Capri operate from several ports, including Positano and Amalfi. The travel time varies, typically ranging from 50 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the type of vessel and the departure point.
Arrival in Capri
Ferries and hydrofoils from Naples, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast all dock at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port. From there, you can take a funicular, bus, or taxi to reach Capri Town or Anacapri. The funicular is a popular choice, offering a scenic ride up the hill to the heart of Capri Town.
Capri vs Anacapri
Capri Island is only a half hour or so from one end to the other by car. For most tourists, you will most likely stay in the main Capri town (Yes the name of the town is the same as the island) or Anacapri on the hill.
Both towns are lovely with their own charms. I stayed in Anacapri in a beautiful bed and breakfast with stunning views of the island. From Anacapri, it is closer to the Blue Grotto by bus.
I only had two nights in Capri however, and I found myself spending most of my time in Capri as a lot of the famous sights are near to that town. While it is only a 20 minute bus ride between the two towns, the buses are not super frequent.
If you have a lot of time, you won’t be disappointed in staying in either town. During the high seasons, the town of Capri can become extremely busy so if you want to have more peace and quiet, then stay in Anacapri.
What to do in Capri?
Now that you arrived in Capri, what is there to do here? Well turns out quite a bit!
Taking the buses in Capri
Capri is an extremely expensive island to get around by car. The taxis are pretty crazy expensive. I paid €30 for a ride from the ferry terminal to Anacapri (15 minutes). Taxis are also not readily available as you’ll need to call them beforehand.
The buses are the most common way to get around the island. They run somewhat frequently during the high season months and connect the island pretty well. The Anacapri to Capri bus is the most common but there are also buses from Anacapri to the Blue Grotto and more. The bus fare is €2 per ride and €2.50 if you purchase on the bus. There is also an additional charge if you bring luggage.
Nevertheless, make sure to get familiar with the bus routes as this will be your only way around unless you want to spend hundreds of euros on taxis, or car rentals.
Rent a scooter for Capri
As I do with everywhere else in the world, renting a scooter on a place like Capri makes the experience so much better. Instead of waiting around for the bus or taking the prohibitively expensive taxis, a scooter is the way to go.
On Capri however, you won’t save that much money with a scooter as they are very expensive compared to other parts of the world but at least you’ll have the freedom and time to explore everything at your own pace and leisure. A scooter for the day will be around 60-70 Euros.
Walk around Capri
Capri is just stunning. The views from Anacapri are ridiculous. There are a ton of things to see in Capri and do I would recommend staying at least 3 nights. Two nights was simply not enough.
For starters, just walk around the main town of Capri and soak in all the beautiful buildings and views. From Capri town, you can walk to the famous Gardens of Augusto where you can soak in even more beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding rocks. There are also numerous bars and restaurants here with stunning views where you can have a delicious aperitivo (prepare to spend a lot of money though).
Villa Lysis and Arco Naturele
From Capri town, take the 30 minute walk to Villa Lysis which is one of the most picturesque and iconic villas in the island. I think the views and picture opportunities here are unmatched. Also visit the Arco Naturele nearby which is a huge rock arch with views of the turquoise waters below.
In the summer months, I would highly recommend a boat tour around the island that visits the Blue Grotto and other sights.
Grab a drink at Capri Rooftop Lounge Bar
Nothing beats an aperitivo with a view in Italy. Speaking of views, Capri is packed with views literally everywhere. No better place to have a drink with a view than at Capri Rooftop lounge bar. This bar is located next to Giardini di Augusto which is a beautiful garden itself. The bar has stunning views overlooking the sea and cliffs.
Grab an Aperol spritz or a negroni cocktail and get the night started. Prepare to pay a premium though as these views don’t come cheap. Prepare to pay at last 15-20 Euros for a drink!
Where to stay in Capri Island?
Capri island is not a cheap place to visit or stay. Prepare to pay up for your accommodations. There are plenty of options however on this island ranging from relatively cheap to the ultra expensive. You can expect prices to increase 2-3x during the peak summer months from June to August.
I stayed in a beautiful B&B in Anacapri right at the base of Monte Solaro, which the B&B is appropriately named after. The views of the Mediterranean and the town of Anacapri were breathtaking every morning to wake up to.
Best time of year to visit Capri
The best time to visit Capri Island is from late April to early June and September to early October. During these shoulder seasons, the island offers a perfect blend of mild weather, manageable crowds, and more affordable costs, ensuring a delightful and memorable experience.
Weather:
The late spring and early fall months bring pleasantly warm temperatures, typically ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This climate is ideal for exploring Capri’s stunning landscapes, whether you’re hiking the scenic trails of Monte Solaro, taking a leisurely boat ride around the island, or lounging on its pristine beaches. The sea is also warm enough for swimming, providing a refreshing escape without the oppressive heat of summer.
Crowds
One of the most appealing aspects of visiting during these shoulder seasons is the reduced number of tourists. While Capri is a popular destination year-round, the peak summer months of July and August see a significant influx of visitors, which can lead to crowded streets, long waits at popular attractions like the Blue Grotto, and difficulty securing reservations at top restaurants.
By contrast, late spring and early fall offer a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to explore the island’s charm and beauty at your own pace. You’ll find it easier to enjoy the vibrant Piazzetta, wander through the picturesque streets of Anacapri, and soak in the serene views from the Gardens of Augustus without the hustle and bustle.
Costs
Traveling during the shoulder seasons can also be more cost-effective. Hotels and flights are generally less expensive compared to the high season, and you can often find attractive deals and discounts. Many accommodations offer special packages during these periods, providing excellent value for money.
Dining out and enjoying various activities also tend to be more affordable, as prices are not inflated by peak demand. This allows you to indulge in Capri’s renowned cuisine, such as fresh seafood and mouthwatering gelato, without breaking the bank.
Moreover, the shoulder seasons often coincide with local festivals and events that showcase Capri’s rich culture and traditions. For instance, in late April, you might experience the Capri Film Festival, which brings a touch of cinematic glamour to the island. In September, the Settembrata Anacaprese offers a taste of local folklore, music, and gastronomy, providing a unique glimpse into the island’s vibrant heritage.
