Capri might not be the only absolutely charming island in Naples Bay, but it’s undoubtedly the most famous one. Anyone visiting the nearby Amalfi Coast should (at least!) go on a day trip to Capri to marvel at its gorgeous scenery.
But why not spend more days there if you have time? There are plenty of things to do in Capri, whether you want jam-packed days to keep yourself busy, or would rather take it slow and explore at your leisure.
Capri is also the epitome of La Dolce Vita, Italy’s way of describing a sweet life of self-indulgence, pleasure, and a slow-paced, even vacation-like way of life.
With lush gardens, charming little streets, open-air cafés serving aperitivo drinks all day, and beautiful architecture (plus the jaw-dropping views!), Capri embodies the concept of La Dolce Vita, which you’ll sense as soon as you step foot in it.
I was born and raised in Italy, and I’ve been lucky enough to visit this region multiple times. Personally, I much prefer Capri to the hustle and bustle of Positano and Amalfi. Capri is crowded, not going to lie, but even in high season, it’s possible to leave the crowds behind, especially if you head to Anacapri.
Its incredible views over the Faraglioni, the smell of summer and its winding little alleyways… what’s not to love about Capri?
If you’re visiting Capri on a day trip, then you might choose to visit with an organized tour. I’ve previously written a set of articles about the best boat tours to Capri from Positano, Sorrento, or Amalfi, and the top tours to Capri from Naples or even from Rome.
If you’re visiting on your own for the day, or staying on the island for a few days, you can learn how to get to Capri on my dedicated blog post.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN CAPRI
Capri might be small, but it’s a well-known island that has been attracting jet-setters and celebrities since the 1950s.
For this reason, the island is very well-developed and offers a myriad of activities and attractions, both natural and man-made. Below you’ll find a list of the very best things to do on Capri Island as recommended by an Italian blogger (me!)
Take a Boat Tour around Capri
In my opinion, taking a boat tour around the island is a must-do in Capri. One of the island’s most beautiful traits is its rugged landscape and glistening blue waters, which can be best appreciated when seeing them together from the sea.
Skirting the coast will also give you prime views of the Roman ruins, the iconic Faraglioni, and the fantastic blue, white, and green grottoes. Having the chance to jump into the water for a swim is also very appreciated in the summer months!
If you’re visiting on your own or you’re staying on the island for a few days, these boat tours from Capri are your best bet.
▶️ This Capri: Island Boat Trip with Grottos offers a leisurely sail around the beautiful island, besides a visit to the super popular Blue Grotto. A knowledgeable skipper will point to the landmarks and tell you stories about Capri’s history and myths. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Small Group Capri Island Boat Ride with Swimming and Limoncello is a relaxing experience that takes you cruising past many of the island’s landmarks and includes time to swim in the sea, besides tastings of limoncello. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ For a more personalized experience, check out this Private Boat Tour of Capri. You’ll cruise around the island, swim and snorkel with the provided equipment, and relax onboard with drinks and snacks as you take in the sights. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Visit the Grottoes of Capri
The grottoes in Capri are a highlight on any visit to the island, and one of the most beautiful natural attractions it boasts.
Grottoes are basically sea caves that can only be accessed by boat, and the ones in Capri are named after the vivid colors they emit, which make the already beautiful sites even more precious. Besides, going on a trip to visit them is one of the most popular things to do in Capri!
➤ The Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) is the most famous of them all, and has become a symbol of Capri. Situated on the side of the mountain, the cave is illuminated by the outside sunlight, creating a beautiful effect that makes the water bright blue.
The color is so intense and vibrant that it will be hard to believe it’s real until you see it with your own eyes. To enter it, you’ll have to transfer to a small boat and crouch down when the boat captain tells you to – this is an experience in itself, although not recommended for people with mobility issues.
➤ The Green Grotto (Grotta Verde) features emerald green waters caused by the reflection of sunlight on the seabed. This stunning sea cave has two openings, and unlike the Blue Grotto allows visitors to swim in its refreshing waters.
➤The White Grotto (Grotta Bianca) is not named after the sea but after the cave itself, which showcases white sides and stalactites. Like the other grottoes on the island, it can only be accessed from the water, and you’re allowed to swim as well!
Most boat tours of Capri will include a visit to some grottoes, but if you want to see them all you should book a private boat tour in which there’s more flexibility with the itinerary.
A different way to explore the grottoes if you don’t want to go on a boat tour is by kayak.
▶️ The Caves and Beaches Kayaking Tour enables you to enter coves that aren’t accessible by boat, enjoying the scenic views of the island, and visiting attractions such as the Cave of Water and the Green Grotto, learning about them from your guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Soak Up the Views from Giardini di Augusto (Gardens of Augustus)
One of the top attractions in Capri for a day trip (and an absolute must if you stay longer!) is the Gardens of Augustus.
Giardini di Augusto in Italian, the landmark is situated mere steps from Capri town, but its higher elevation provides it one of its major appeals: the views. Facing the sea and offering a privileged sight of Marina Piccola and the Faraglioni, these gardens are a beauty beyond their scenery.
The giardini are composed of a series of terraces full of colorful flowers and lush vegetation, offering a peaceful retreat of nature amidst Capri town’s glitz and busyness.
Also known as Krupp Gardens, they were commissioned by Friederich Krupp in the early 1900s, and nowadays are public gardens property of Capri, and kept as beautifully as they were in the beginning. Historic monuments and neoclassical statues can also be found when wandering around the decked terraces, along with different types of trees that provide shade.
The hike from Capri town to the gardens takes less than 10 minutes.
Enjoy the Beaches & Beach Clubs in Capri
Feel like taking a break from all the walking around? Capri beaches are lovely, and a wonderful retreat where you can enjoy a few hours of relaxation basking in the sun and going for a swim.
➤ Marina Grande is the island’s main beach and also the biggest, located very close to the port. This pebble beach is public, but there are also two beach clubs on-site, and it’s very easily accessible from Capri Town. The water is great for swimming, and you’ll find plenty of services at hand.
➤ Marina Piccola is a smaller beach with quieter vibes, and it’s one of the best places to admire the Faraglioni, as it directly faces the rocks. This beach in Capri is protected from the elements by the cliff, so it’s warm and calm, even on windy days, and ideal for swimming with staggering views all around you.
➤ Bagni di Tiberio is a lovely beach club that can be accessed by boat or a ten-minute walk from Capri town. Palazzo a Mare beach, where it’s situated, is quiet and features a restaurant, sun loungers and umbrellas, besides a boat tour along the coastline.
It’s a great place to spend a full day of relaxation, as you’ll have access to delicious food and warm showers at all times.
➤ La Fontelina Beach Club is one of the most exclusive ones in the region. Situated right in front of the Faraglioni, it’s part of an irresistible scenery of sea and rocks that boasts a great swimming area.
Besides its natural appeal, it has a restaurant and services that include sunloungers and umbrellas. It can be accessed by foot on a winding path from Capri town or by paying for the boat shuttle that departs from Marina Piccola.
Walk Around Anacapri
Capri island has two main towns: Capri Town and Anacapri. The latter one, situated high up on the island, is one of the main attractions for both one-day visitors and those spending several days. You can’t go to Capri without visiting this area!
One of the main attributes of Anacapri is the magnificent views it offers of the island and the bay, but it’s not the only one. Being more of a residential area than a tourist spot, the commune is quieter than Capri town: your Capri shopping spree won’t take place here!
Anacapri is ideal for taking a stroll along its picturesque alleys. It will give you a chance to admire the spectacular villas that dot it, among which Villa San Michele stands out, and check out some of its other beautiful attractions.
You’ll need to take a bus from Capri town to Anacapri, as the only way to reach it by foot would be climbing up the 900 steps of the island’s old staircase, which was the way to do it before other means of transfer were introduced.
The bus station is a few steps from Piazzetta, and the journey takes 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Capri Town.
Have a Spritz at Piazza Umberto I (Piazzetta)
Piazzetta is one of Capri town’s most important locations, and it’s the beating heart of the island’s social scene. It has been since the 1950s, when Capri saw its boom and started attracting celebrities, politicians, and tourists from all walks of life.
Up to this day, Piazzetta is where people go to be seen, to socialize, and hopefully to catch glimpses of Hollywood stars. The square, though, was a hub even before becoming a social hotspot, as it’s where the island’s market was based and the locals gathered to trade their goods, from vegetables to fresh fish and meat.
Besides people watching, the best thing to do in Piazza Umberto I, as it’s officially called, is to grab a seat at one of the cafes and sip on the traditional aperitivo drink. The square has been referred to as the world’s living room and it’s one of the most glamorous in the country, so there’s no better spot for a sundowner spritz!
The best way to get to Piazzetta in Capri town is by taking the cable car from Marina Grande, as it will grant you panoramic views. Otherwise, you can walk there from the port, but it’s an uphill walk.
Don’t Miss the Iconic Faraglioni
The Faraglioni are an iconic landmark of Capri whose name states exactly what they are: impressive rock formations that emerge from the ocean.
Situated right off the coast of Capri, these sea stacks are quite a sight to behold, rising almost 330 feet above the water, and enhance the island’s postcard-like scenery regardless of where you’re admiring them from.
The prettiest one is Faraglione di Mezzo, which boasts an ample stone archway that adds character to it, and it’s super fun to sail under! Mezzo is the one in the middle, while Stella is the Faraglione closest to Capri, and Scopolo the furthest away.
The best way to see them is to go on a boat tour around them. It will give you a chance to get up close to the rock formations, cruise past the archway (where lovers should kiss for good luck!) and be in awe of their size.
Otherwise, you can hunt for the best views in Capri of the Faraglioni at the viewpoints. The ultimate ones include Gardens of Augustus, Belvedere Tragara, and Marina Piccola. Be sure to have your camera ready, because the sight of them is really something!
Ride the Chairlift to Monte Solaro
Monte Solaro is the highest point on the island, and is accessible from Anacapri via a chairlift. It rises 1900 feet above the sea, and it’s the ultimate vantage point in Capri, featuring broad views of the whole island.
The panorama is the one and only attraction at Monte Solaro (not that it needs any other!) and in order to give you the best viewing experience there is a restaurant and sunchairs on-site. This way you’ll get to indulge in a meal or drink to pair with the awe-striking scenery, and relax in front of the views.
The chairlift costs 15€ roundtrip, and it takes 12 minutes to arrive at the top.
Walk Via Tragara To Belvedere Tragara
They say Via Tragara is one of the best walks in the world, and I can confidently vouch for that, besides adding that it ends at an incredible viewpoint. You really don’t want to miss walking along it!
Besides offering a beautiful setting for a stroll, Via Tragara is considered one of the most exclusive streets on the island, as it’s where most villas and celebrity houses are situated.
As you walk along it you’ll pass by massive concrete and vegetation walls that hide the properties to ensure their privacy, while on the other side you’ll be treated to views of the sea for the whole of your stroll.
The path is on the east side of Capri town, and it will take you through archways and narrow alleys until, at the very end of the promenade, you’ll encounter Belvedere Tragara, one of the best outlook points on the island.
There you will be rewarded with astounding views of the Faraglioni and the cliff-perched houses of the island, and even catch sight of the Amalfi Coast in the distance. Via Tragara ought to be on your itinerary.
Wander around Capri Town
Being the main town of Capri, Capri Town is one of the top attractions on the island, and home to quite a few landmarks that include the Piazzetta, Marina Piccola, and Gardens of Augustus.
The center of Capri Town bustles with activity, and the main streets are lined with boutiques and handicraft shops selling everything from luxury accessories to clothing, souvenirs, and the famous handmade Capri sandals. It’s therefore the ultimate spot for shopping in Capri!
Some of the best shops in Capri town are located in Via Vittoria Emanuele and Via Camerelle, the latter being the most famous of the two.
It’s a very lively area to walk around, taking in the views and sounds of the town and its narrow, picturesque alleys. What to see in Capri town includes Villa Jovis, both Marinas, Belvedere Tragara, Certosa di San Giacomo (St. James’ Charterhouse), and the impressive Via Krupp.
See the Sunset at the Faro di Punta Carena Lighthouse
Visiting Faro di Punta Carena is one of the best things to do in Anacapri, especially around sunset. The lighthouse is the second tallest in Italy, and it’s been active since 1867, still operating to this day.
The faro is located on the Southwestern coast of the island, facing the Tyrrhenian Sea and the island of Sicily in the distance (although it cannot be seen).
This spot truly is the best place to be for sunset, as you’ll enjoy unrestricted views of the sun disappearing into the water and offering a magnificent spectacle.
Admire Via Krupp
Another Capri must see is Via Krupp, which is probably the best road on the island. Via Krupp has been closed for many years due to safety concerns, so these days one cannot walk on it. Much better than being on the road, though, is admiring it from above, so there’s no loss for you!
After all, Via Krupp zigzags on the side of the cliff from Marina Piccola all the way up to the Gardens of Augustus, close to where Friedrich Krupp – who commissioned both the gardens and the road – had his home.
Since covering the over 320 feet of elevation on foot to reach it wasn’t very convenient, he decided to build the famous via which to this day remains a landmark of the island. The road is 4475 feet long, and it was built in the late 19th century, carved on the side of the cliff.
The winding Via Krupp can be best seen from outside the gardens, and the spot offers not only one of the best views of Capri, but also perfect photo opportunities.
Visit Villa San Michele
One of the places to visit in Capri that you can’t miss is Villa San Michele, an astounding villa built at the beginning of the 20th century by Swedish Axel Munthe.
He wanted to live in an open, very luminous space that resembled a Greek temple, and the villa reflects that featuring ample open-air rooms, big windows with stunning views, and outdoor galleries with sculptures and columns that overlook the sea.
Things to see in Villa San Michele include the magnificent garden and an art collection that’s worth being explored. In the summertime, film festivals, concerts, and other events are held at the property, from where you can enjoy beautiful views of the famous Faraglioni, the bay, and Barbarossa.
This mountain, located right in front of the villa, was bought by Munthe to prohibit the trapping of wild birds that happened there and turned into a sanctuary.
Eat at These Restaurants in Capri
Things to do in Capri Island – as with any destination in Italy – include indulging in authentic local cuisine. So, where should you have dinner during your visit to Capri?
▶️ Ristorante Da Tonino is a Michelin Guide restaurant located in Capri town, a 15-minute walk from Piazzetta. It prides itself in its impressive cellar and wine list, and it offers an extensive menu of vegetarian, meat-based, and seafood dishes, each as delectable as the rest. It’s one of the best restaurants in Capri island.
▶️ Sciuè Sciuè is a restaurant in Anacapri with amazing service and great Italian food, offering everything from pasta specialties to pizza, salads, and seafood. It’s the highest-rated eatery in town and customers rave about the quality of the food, which is 5 stars.
▶️ Capri Pasta is, indeed, pasta heaven. This takeaway place is a Capri institution of homemade ravioli caprese – which it even ships throughout the country! – but also serves fresh pasta of different kinds and other specialties of Italian and Neapolitan cuisine.
▶️ Pescheria Le Botteghe, as the name suggests, specializes in seafood. It’s situated mere steps from Piazzetta, and excels at merging the traditional flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the taste of local fresh fish. The service is also fantastic, and they have a good selection of wine.
▶️ Ristorante Buca di Bacco is set in a cozy trattoria and features a menu of the ultimate Italian fare. Neapolitan and Mediterranean flavors are offered alongside classics like fresh pasta of all types, wood-fired pizza, salads, and seafood. The service is top-notch, and prices are not overly high.
HOW TO GET AROUND CAPRI
Capri is a mountainous island in the Bay of Naples that features a rugged coastline with impressive cliffs, hilltop towns, and rock formations. Its attractions, therefore, are scattered among the hills and situated on different levels of the island.
Capri and Anacapri are the island’s two towns, the latter being located at an elevation of 880 feet higher than Capri town. This means that exploring Capri involves a lot of travel up and down to visit its elevated viewpoints and enjoy the beaches at sea level.
➤ Buses run throughout the island to take you from one point to the other, but there’s also a funicular (which I highly recommend taking!) that connects Marina Grande with Anacapri.
➤ Walking around the towns to visit their main attractions is entirely possible, and the small alleys and streets are very charming to stroll along.
➤ Finally, there’s a chairlift to get to Monte Solaro, a fabulous viewpoint at Capri’s peak that can only be accessed this way unless you’re up for an uphill, slightly strenuous one-hour hike.
WHERE TO STAY IN CAPRI
If you’re staying in Capri for a few days, you’ll need to find accommodation in advance. Below are the best hotels in Capri town and Anacapri for you to check out.
LUXURY: Hotel Punta Tragara – Two swimming pools, a wellness area, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a poolside bar are some of the amenities offered at this luxurious, 5-star hotel. Rooms are spacious, and a buffet breakfast is included.
BOUTIQUE: Capri Wine Hotel – This charming, oceanfront hotel features modern rooms with AC, minibar, and flat-screen TV, an organic market, and a wine bar. It serves daily breakfast and offers free pick-up from the port.
GUESTHOUSE: Caprita Guest House – Located in Anacapri, this guest house offers modern rooms with en-suite bathroom, a terrace with city views, and a shared lounge. An Italian breakfast is served every morning.
ON A BUDGET: Eden Apartment – This apartment in Anacapri features a bedrooom, a kitchen, a seating area with dining furniture, and a private bathroom. Toiletries are provided. It’s the most economic option on the island, however there aren’t really hotels on a budget in Capri. This one is still 120 USD a night in July, which is considered cheap for Capri.
PLACES TO VISIT NEAR CAPRI
Looking for things to do outside of Capri? Despite being an island, it’s close to many gorgeous destinations that can be easily visited from there. Usually, people visit Capri on a day trip from one of these places. However, if you’ll be basing yourself for a few days on Capri island, you can instead go on a day trip to the mainland.
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most beautiful locations, and it’s very easily accessible from Capri. Comprising several villages perched on dramatic cliffs and featuring pretty beaches and awe-striking views, the coast is the quintessential holiday destination for both locals and foreigners.
▶️ Sorrento: Sorrento is considered the gateway to Amalfi Coast, and it’s a picturesque town on the Sorrentine peninsula. It’s famous for the impressive number of lemon trees and groves it features, besides its lovely waterfront, the Bagni Regina Giovanna attraction, and two scenic harbors.
▶️ Positano: The prettiest town on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is also the most popular. Boasting irresistible views of the coast, charming cafes and boutiques, and streets lined with flowers, Positano also offers great dining experiences and a fun nightlife.
▶️ Amalfi: Amalfi is situated right in the heart of the Amalfi Coast, and it’s much quieter than Positano. It has nice beaches and interesting museums, as it’s the most historic town of them all, and a lovely harbor to check out. There’s not much nightlife or activities, though, as it’s mainly a laid-back destination.
▶️ Pompeii: Pompeii is world-renowned for having been engulfed in lava and ashes when the Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. It’s a very historic location that showcases the casts of the people who died there, as well as the ruins of houses, temples, and public baths. The volcano looming in the background is also very impressive to see!
▶️ Naples: A UNESCO-listed historic center, more pizzerias that you’ll be able to count serving the celebrated Margherita Pizza, and Greek ruins from 600 BC are but a few of the many -and very varied- attractions that Naples has to offer. It’s also one of the most important cities in Southern Italy to witness the mix between the old and the modern.
