This guide to Capri is designed to help you make the most of your visit, whether you’re a first-timer or looking for a deeper experience. We’ll cover how to get there, how to get around, where to stay, what to do, where to shop, and where to eat.
Best Time to Visit
I’ve found that planning your trip carefully makes all the difference here, especially when it comes to the weather and crowds. Summer is the busiest time, which means beaches and popular spots will be quite full. Most of the island’s hotels and businesses are open from mid-April through mid-October.
For a more relaxed experience, I prefer visiting in early April. The weather is usually mild, and the crowds are much smaller, making it easier to explore. Late April is also wonderful, as the trees and flowers are in full bloom, and the air feels especially fresh.
Fall can be lovely too, but there’s a small chance storms could affect ferry services. If that happens, you might find yourself staying on the island longer than planned.
How to Get There
The only way to reach Capri, unless you’re arriving by helicopter, is by sea. Daily ferries travel from Naples and Sorrento to Marina Grande, which is the island’s main port.
During the season, from April to October, you can also catch ferries from other towns like Salerno, Ischia, Amalfi, and Positano. I always recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak times, to avoid any last-minute issues.
Neighborhoods to Know
Capri Town
This is the larger of the two main towns and where most visitors first arrive. The main square, the Piazzetta, is the heart of the town. You’ll find many hotels, restaurants, and shops here, all connected by narrow, pedestrian-only paths. Many beautiful walks begin here, including routes to Villa Jovis and the Belvedere di Tragara.
I remember the first time we visited, navigating these pathways felt like stepping back in time. It’s easy to get a little turned around, but that’s part of the charm. Just keep an eye out for the little signs pointing to major landmarks.
Anacapri
Anacapri is smaller and used to be much quieter. You can reach it by bus or taxi from Capri Town. Even though more hotels and restaurants have opened here in recent years, it still feels more relaxed and a bit more like a local community compared to the more glamorous Capri Town.
Marina Grande
This is the island’s port town. It has a good selection of hotels and restaurants, and it’s home to Capri’s only sandy beach. This is also where many boat tours depart from, including those going to the famous Blue Grotto and other beautiful coves around the island.
How to Get Around
Funicular
From Marina Grande, the funicular is a convenient way to get up to the Piazzetta in Capri Town. It runs about every 15 minutes, from early morning until late evening. Be prepared for wait times, especially during the busy season.
My tip for using the funicular: if you have a lot of luggage or time is tight, consider a taxi instead. But for the experience and to soak in the views as you ascend, the funicular is great. Just remember to purchase your tickets before you get in line.
Bus
Small mini-buses connect Marina Grande with Capri Town and Anacapri. They also run between Capri Town and Marina Piccola, and to Anacapri. The buses can get crowded, and the roads are quite winding, so it can be an adventure!
Even with kids, I’ve found the buses to be a practical way to reach different parts of the island. Just be patient, as they can fill up quickly. It’s a good idea to have some small bills for the fare, as sometimes it’s easier to pay the driver directly.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the port and in both towns. You cannot bring your own car to Capri, and while scooter rentals are available and fun, taxis offer a straightforward way to get around.
Best Hotels & Resorts
J.K. Place Capri
This hotel offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s a wonderful place to unwind, perhaps with a drink on the terrace that overlooks Capri’s only sand beach.
Hotel La Palma
As Capri’s oldest hotel, it was renovated in 2023 and is known for its luxurious Mediterranean style. The hotel has a great restaurant, Gennaro’s, led by a chef with Michelin-starred experience.
Grand Hotel Quisisana
This hotel is celebrated for its prime location on the island. It features an active patio bar, lovely grounds, and a pool with sea views. One of its special features is a secluded villa with a private pool and butler service.
I’ve found that hotels with exceptional views really enhance the Capri experience. Even if you’re not staying right on the water, seeking out places with sea vistas for a meal or a drink makes a big difference. The Grand Hotel Quisisana, for instance, offers those classic island panoramas that seem to go on forever.
La Floridiana
This family-run hotel offers more affordable prices. It’s set away from the busiest part of Capri town and has a charming design with tiled surfaces that evoke an earlier era of the island’s popularity.
Booking Tip: It’s wise to book your accommodations and ferry tickets well in advance, particularly from mid-April to mid-October, which is the peak season. This helps ensure you get the lodgings you want and avoids any last-minute complications.
Best Things to Do
Beach Clubs
Beaches are highly sought after during the Capri summer. It’s essential to book an umbrella and lounge chair at a beach club ahead of time. Some popular options are known for their great settings and service, offering a comfortable place to relax by the sea.
Scenic Chairlift
For breathtaking views, take the single-seater chairlift from Anacapri up to Monte Solaro. The ride offers spectacular panoramas of the island and the surrounding sea. Many people choose to walk back down, enjoying the scenery at a different pace.
I remember taking that chairlift with my family. The open-air ride was a bit thrilling, and as we ascended, the views just kept getting better. My daughter, Lily, was pointing out boats far below. It’s moments like that, sharing a unique view with them, that make travel so special.
Private Boat Ride
To truly experience the island’s coastline, consider a private or semi-private boat tour. These tours often include stops for swimming and snorkeling in beautiful spots, with prosecco and snacks provided. You can arrange these through your hotel or independent operators.
While the boat tours are popular, I’ve learned that booking a private option, even for just a few hours, makes a huge difference. It allows you to stop where you want, swim in quieter coves, and really soak in the beauty of the water without the rush of a larger group. We found a small boat captain who told us stories about the hidden caves – those personal touches are priceless.
Nature Walks
Immersing yourself in Capri’s natural beauty is a must. Consider a walk to places like Villa Lysis, the historic home of a French writer, which leads you through quiet areas with gardens and pine trees to a scenic overlook.
The walk along Via Tragara is another highlight. This path, lined with bougainvillea, leads to the Belvedere di Tragara, offering stunning views of the Faraglioni rock formations. Along the way, you’ll pass by beautiful villas and luxury hotels.
When hiking, especially in the warmer months, I always make sure we have plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. The paths can be uneven, and sometimes the shaded sections are few and far between. It’s always better to be prepared so you can enjoy the walk itself.
Best Shopping
Y’AM Capri
Capri is known for its fashion, and this boutique offers designs that capture the island’s vibrant and elegant spirit. You’ll find colorful clothing and accessories not far from the main square.
Fiore Capri
This shop offers unique items, from custom-made sandals to signature bags and silk dresses. These pieces are described as investments that enhance your time on the island and are stylish enough for any beach destination.
Chantecler
For beautiful jewelry, Chantecler is a must-visit. They are known for pieces like “La Campanella,” a small, gem-studded bell that symbolizes Capri. It’s a place filled with sparkling items that catch the eye.
I’ve learned that Capri’s shopping is more than just souvenirs; it’s about finding pieces that remind you of your trip. Even just browsing the shops can be inspiring. We like to pick out one special item, maybe a scarf or a small piece of jewelry, that feels truly connected to the place.
Best Restaurants
Pulalli
Located in an iconic spot under the belltower in the Piazzetta, this restaurant offers excellent views over the lively square. The menu features dishes that are far from typical tourist fare, such as seared octopus with grass pea hummus.
Giardino di Capri
This is not a traditional restaurant but rather a cooking school in Anacapri. They offer private tastings and dinners, as well as workshops on making gelato, limoncello, and more. They also provide picnic baskets and cheese and wine tastings.
I love seeking out these types of experiences when we travel. A family-run cooking class, like the one at Giardino di Capri, offers a wonderful way to connect with local food traditions. My kids, Lily and Ethan, still talk about learning to make limoncello (non-alcoholic versions for them, of course!) – it’s a delicious memory.
Pescheria Le Bottega
For a more casual and affordable seafood option in Capri Town, this spot is a great find. You can dine in or get fresh seafood to go, like a cone of fried seafood and vegetables, perfect for enjoying while exploring.
Da Paolino
This fine-dining restaurant in Marina Grande offers a memorable dining experience. The setting under a lemon arbor is particularly special, and the food is served in a traditional Italian style.
Due Pini
Set on terraces overlooking Anacapri’s Piazza Vittoria, this well-established restaurant serves classic island dishes. They focus on seafood and ingredients sourced from their own garden and the surrounding Campania region.
When dining out in Italy, I always look for restaurants that highlight local ingredients. You can often tell the difference in freshness and flavor. Don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations—they are usually very proud of what’s in season and what makes their restaurant unique.
Capri is an island that rewards slowing down. Whether you’re enjoying a seaside stroll, savoring local flavors, or taking in the breathtaking views, there’s a sense of charm and history that unfolds with each moment.