Capri Itinerary: How to Experience the Best of This Italian Gem

Welcome to Capri, the crown jewel of the Bay of Naples, where rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and Mediterranean elegance come together in one unforgettable destination. For centuries, Capri has captivated emperors, poets, Hollywood stars, and everyday travelers with its irresistible mix of natural beauty, glamour, and tranquility.
 

As your virtual tour guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect escape to Capri — from iconic attractions like the Blue Grotto and Faraglioni Rocks to hidden beaches, luxury shopping, and local secrets.

📍 Where Is Capri?

🗺 Location: Bay of Naples, Campania region, Southern Italy

🚢 How to Reach: By ferry or hydrofoil from Naples, Sorrento, Amalfi, or Positano

⏱ Travel Time: 45 min to 1.5 hours by boat depending on departure point

📖 A Glimpse into Capri’s History

Capri’s story stretches back to ancient times:

🏛 Roman Era: Emperor Tiberius made Capri his home in 27 AD, building Villa Jovis to rule the empire from afar.

🎨 Renaissance to 19th Century: Artists and intellectuals were drawn to the island’s beauty.

🎥 20th Century Glamour: A haven for stars like Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, and Jackie Kennedy.

Today, Capri retains its magic, mixing history, natural wonders, and modern elegance.

🧭 Top Things to Do in Capri

1. 🌊 The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)

Capri’s most iconic sight. Enter this sea cave in a small rowboat and witness the surreal blue glow caused by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity.

📍 Location: Northwest coast

🕒 Best Time: Late morning to early afternoon (for optimal light)

💶 Cost: ~€18 (includes rowboat entry)

📝 Tip: Avoid on rough sea days — grotto may be closed.

2. ⛰️ Take the Chairlift to Monte Solaro

The highest point on Capri offers a 360° view over the island, Bay of Naples, and Amalfi Coast.

🚠 Location: From Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri

⏱ Duration: 12 minutes each way

🎟 Ticket: ~€12 round trip

📸 Don’t Miss: Panoramic photos at the summit

3. 🪨 See the Faraglioni Rocks

These dramatic sea stacks rise from the water just off Capri’s southern coast and are among Italy’s most photographed landmarks.

🚤 Best View: By boat tour

🥾 Alternate Viewpoint: Via Tragara scenic walk

💋 Legend: Couples who kiss while passing under the arch of Faraglione di Mezzo will stay in love forever

4. 🏛 Visit Villa San Michele

Located in Anacapri, this elegant villa was built by Swedish doctor and author Axel Munthe. It offers beautiful gardens, ancient ruins, and spectacular views.

🏠 Features: Egyptian sphinx, Mediterranean gardens, sea views

🎟 Ticket: ~€10

5. 🚶 Stroll Through Capri Town

The main town of Capri is a labyrinth of whitewashed buildings, chic boutiques, and open-air cafés.

🛍️ Shop along Via Camerelle for designer brands

🍹 Enjoy a drink at Piazza Umberto I (La Piazzetta) — the island's stylish social hub

💡 Insider Tip: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds

6. 🌳 Explore Anacapri

Quieter and more authentic than Capri Town, Anacapri is full of charm.

🖼️ Visit Casa Rossa art gallery

🪟 Take in views from Villa San Michele

🛵 Rent a scooter and explore winding roads

7. 🌿 Walk the Path of the Forts (Pizzolungo)

A peaceful coastal walk with views of Faraglioni, pine forests, and ancient Roman ruins.

⏱ Duration: ~2 hours

🥾 Difficulty: Easy to moderate

📍 Start Point: Near the Arco Naturale

🏖 Best Beaches in Capri

Capri doesn’t have sandy beaches, but it offers stunning rocky coves and beach clubs with crystal-clear waters.

1. Marina Piccola

Sheltered cove with calm waters

Ideal for swimming and sunbathing

Home to several beach clubs and restaurants

2. Bagni di Tiberio

Historic beach once used by Emperor Tiberius

Accessible by boat or footpath from Marina Grande

3. Faro di Punta Carena

Best for sunset

Located near the lighthouse

Pebble beach with a relaxed vibe

🍝 What to Eat in Capri

Capri’s cuisine is light, fresh, and Mediterranean.

Must-Try Dishes

Insalata Caprese: Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil — named after the island!

Ravioli Capresi: Stuffed with ricotta and marjoram

Pezzogna al sale: Salt-baked sea bream

Limoncello: Lemon liqueur from local groves

Top Restaurants

🏨 Where to Stay in Capri

🛍 What to Buy in Capri

Capri sandals: Handmade leather sandals custom-fitted to your feet

Limoncello: From local lemon groves

Capri perfumes: Carthusia perfumes from the island’s own perfumery

Ceramics & linens: Inspired by Mediterranean patterns

📅 Best Time to Visit Capri

🚤 Getting to and Around Capri

🛥 How to Reach Capri

From Naples: Ferry (~80 min) or hydrofoil (~45 min)

From Sorrento: Shortest route (~20 min by hydrofoil)

From Amalfi Coast: Seasonal ferries from Positano, Amalfi, or Salerno

🚌 Getting Around

Capri is mostly pedestrian-friendly, but transportation options include:

Funicular: From Marina Grande to Capri Town

Buses: Small local buses between Capri, Anacapri, and Marina Piccola

Taxis: Convertible taxis for a stylish ride

Boats: Rent private boats or join group tours

🧳 Capri Travel Tips from a Tour Guide

🚫 Don’t bring large luggage — roads are narrow, and taxis can be expensive

🎟 Book Blue Grotto and boat tours in advance, especially in summer

🧴 Bring reef-safe sunscreen and swimwear — you’ll want to dive in

📵 Prepare for limited Wi-Fi in some areas — enjoy the unplugged life!

🕶 Visit early morning or late evening to beat the crowds

📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots

📍 Faraglioni Viewpoint

📍 Monte Solaro Summit

📍 La Piazzetta at sunset

📍 Blue Grotto from a boat

📍 Garden of Augustus

💬 What Visitors Say

"Capri is where I fell in love — with the food, the views, and the vibe."
– Olivia, USA

"Even after traveling all over Italy, Capri felt like another world."
– Jean-Luc, France

"From hiking to luxury shopping to hidden beaches, it was perfection."
– Emma, UK

🏁 Final Thoughts: Why Capri Is a Must-Visit in Italy

Whether you’re coming for a day trip or indulging in a long luxurious escape, Capri offers something for every traveler. With its unmatched mix of dramatic landscapes, romantic charm, and world-class experiences, Capri is more than a destination — it’s a dream made real.

So pack your sunglasses, charge your camera, and prepare to fall in love with one of the most magical islands in the world.