Capri feels like stepping onto a film set, a place where the drama of the sea meets the elegance of old-world glamour. From the moment you arrive, the island grabs your attention with its sheer cliffs and the impossibly blue water. It’s easy to see why so many have been drawn here for centuries, seeking inspiration or simply a beautiful escape. I found myself completely captivated by its unique atmosphere, especially once Michael and the kids arrived.
Arriving and Getting Around
Getting to Capri from Naples is part of the adventure. We chose a scenic ferry ride, watching the coastline recede as we approached the island. Once on Capri, you won’t be able to hire a car, which honestly, is a blessing. The roads are narrow and winding, and the island is best explored on foot or by the iconic open-air taxis. Taxis can be pricey, so we also got friendly with the local buses; they navigate the hairpin turns with surprising speed, which was always a bit of a thrill for Lily.
Island Experiences
A Day at Sea
You simply must see Capri from the water. Don’t be tempted to just relax by the hotel pool. We booked a boat tour, and it was a highlight for all of us. Our guide, whose family has been part of the island’s seafaring heritage for generations, pointed out the dramatic villas perched on the cliffs and took us to some incredible swimming spots. The crystal-clear water in the grottos was mesmerizing, and Ethan splashed around happily while Lily insisted on spotting as many fish as possible.
Coastal Walks and Views
After lunch in the main square, the Piazzetta, we followed the ceramic signs guiding us to the Arco Naturale. It’s a striking natural arch, all that remains of a collapsed grotto. The walk there leads you through some of the island’s quieter countryside. We stopped for a refreshing lemon granita, which was exactly what we needed on a warm afternoon. We also enjoyed a simple but delicious handmade pasta dish at La Grottelle, right near the arch.
Mount Solaro Chairlift
In Anacapri, the island’s more laid-back counterpart, we took the single-seater chairlift up Mount Solaro. It’s a leisurely 12-minute ride to the island’s highest point, offering absolutely spectacular panoramic views. Back on solid ground, we visited Villa San Michele. Built by a Swedish doctor, it’s filled with interesting antique collections and surrounded by beautiful gardens that provided a lovely, shaded spot for us to relax for a bit.
Beach Time on Capri
Despite its popularity, Capri isn’t known for sandy beaches. The island rises sharply from the sea, and most access points are rocky. While it might seem inconvenient, this means the water is incredibly clear and stays a consistent, beautiful azure. La Fontelina is a standout beach club, offering a chic experience. Reaching it involves a steep set of steps or a boat, adding to its exclusive feel. It’s a place that has hosted many famous faces over the years, and you can feel that history.
Where to Stay
J.K. Place Capri
This hotel strikes a perfect balance between stylish comfort and relaxed luxury. It overlooks Marina Grande, offering lovely views from its perch on a steep bank. The interior design is a beautiful blend of Art Deco and Mediterranean styles, making it feel sophisticated yet welcoming. The library is a wonderful spot to browse books. We stayed in a corner room with deep-set windows, where the stone walls framed the sea view perfectly. Even the hotel’s signature scent, a local fragrance, added to the pleasant atmosphere.
Hotel La Palma
Completely reimagined after a recent refurbishment, Hotel La Palma feels like a serene escape. The design is soft and flowing, with no harsh lines. Ascending the gently sloping staircase felt like walking towards a cloud. Bianca, the rooftop restaurant, offers incredible 360-degree views that were perfect for sunset dinners. The ground floor features delicate frescos, and the poolside cabanas are particularly inviting. We also took advantage of their beach club, Da Gioia, down in Marina Piccola.
Il Capri Hotel
This hotel offers a fun, slightly quirky vibe with its neo-Gothic pink palazzo. It has a great location leading into the island’s center. We appreciated the excellent breakfast service. What sets it apart is its history; the basement once housed Capri’s very first nightclub, and the hotel has brought this nightlife element back, which adds a unique energy.
Hotel Scalinatella
The immediate impression here is one of bright, clean spaces with a classic Capri color scheme of white and cobalt blue. The pool area is particularly attractive with its Moorish-shaped tiles. We requested a sea-view room, decorated in a charming ‘La Dolce Vita’ style. Booking ahead is definitely recommended for these popular rooms.
Punta Tragara
With its terracotta tones, Punta Tragara has a captivating story of being envisioned as a modernist villa by a famous architect before becoming a hotel. It’s situated impressively close to the iconic Faraglioni rocks. The hotel offers two freshwater pools and a pleasant gym overlooking tranquil gardens.
Hotel Caesar Augustus
This family-run hotel is known for its truly magnificent views. It was once a private residence and is filled with cherished heirlooms and antiques collected by the owners over years of travel, giving it a very personal and comfortable feel.
Hotel La Minerva and Hotel Canasta
Located beyond the main Piazzetta, these two smaller hotels share a beautiful setting beneath a vibrant bougainvillea pergola. They boast lovely gardens and pools scented with Mediterranean flora. While both offer sea-view rooms and include breakfast, they don’t have on-site restaurants. Asking the manager at Canasta for local dining tips is a great idea.
Dining Delights
Il Riccio
This upscale beach club is renowned for its exceptional food, even holding a Michelin star. The real showstopper, however, is its dessert room – a truly unforgettable experience for anyone with a sweet tooth. The restaurant terrace hovers above the famous Blue Grotto, a site steeped in ancient history as Emperor Tiberius’s private retreat.
Da Paolino
You’ll likely have seen photos of Da Paolino’s terrace, famously adorned with hundreds of lemon trees. It’s an incredibly photogenic spot. The signature lemon spaghetti is a must-try, and of course, a glass of limoncello is the perfect accompaniment to the island’s signature flavor.
L’Olivo
While Capri often conjures images of glitz, it’s surprisingly home to many relaxed dining spots. L’Olivo offers a more refined fine-dining experience, as part of the Jumeirah Capri Palace hotel. Their specialty is a delicate lemon-scented tagliolini – a refined take on the island’s beloved citrus.
Gelateria Buonocore
No trip to Capri is complete without a generous serving of gelato. This place consistently has a queue, and for good reason. Their freshly made waffle cones are the perfect vehicle for tasting some of the island’s finest flavors. Ethan had us going back for seconds practically every day!
Capri in 2026 promises to be as magical as ever, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking nature, rich history, and delightful culinary experiences. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left its shores.