This Mediterranean island captivates with its steep cliffs, azure waters, and elegant resorts. Its narrow streets lead to chic shops and eateries, drawing global celebrities.
Capri, an island in Italy's Bay of Naples, is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and luxurious atmosphere. You can explore the Blue Grotto, a sea cave where sunlight creates a vivid azure glow, or admire the towering Faraglioni rock formations rising from the sea. In Capri town, you'll find designer boutiques, while coastal trails offer expansive sea views. The island also has exclusive beach clubs where you can relax by the Mediterranean.
Getting to Capri by Ferry
You can only reach Capri by boat. Regular ferries and high-speed hydrofoils depart from Naples and Sorrento year-round. In summer, additional routes run from Positano, Amalfi, and Ischia. The journey takes 20-80 minutes depending on your departure point and ferry type. Book tickets in advance during peak season, as ferries can become fully booked.
Exploring the Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is a popular sea cave on Capri. This cave glows a vivid blue when sunlight passes through an underwater cavity. To enter, you transfer to a small rowboat and lay flat as your guide maneuvers through the low cave entrance. Inside, the luminous blue water creates a unique visual effect. Visit early in the day to avoid long wait times.
Hiking Monte Solaro
For panoramic views on Capri, take the chairlift or hike to the summit of Monte Solaro. At 589 meters, it's the highest point on the island. The panorama stretches across the entire Bay of Naples, with views of the Amalfi Coast, Mt. Vesuvius, and the island of Ischia on clear days. Pack water and sun protection, as there's little shade at the top. The chairlift from Anacapri takes 12 minutes each way.
Beach Clubs in Capri
While Capri has few sandy beaches, its beach clubs provide places to swim and sunbathe. At La Fontelina, you can relax on sun loungers with views of the Faraglioni rocks. The pebble beach at Da Luigi ai Faraglioni sits at the base of Capri's iconic rock formations. Marina Piccola on the south side of the island has several beach clubs in a sheltered bay with calm, shallow water for swimming.
Dining on Capri's Specialties
Capri's cuisine highlights fresh seafood and local produce. Try the island's namesake Caprese salad made with locally-grown tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Ravioli capresi filled with caciotta cheese and marjoram is a traditional pasta dish. For dessert, you can taste torta caprese, a flourless chocolate and almond cake. Da Paolino restaurant serves meals under a canopy of lemon trees, while Da Gemma offers authentic Neapolitan pizza with sea views.
When to Visit Capri
Consider visiting Capri in late spring (May to mid-June) and early fall (September to mid-October). During these periods, you'll experience mild weather and fewer visitors than in peak summer. Many hotels and restaurants close from November to Easter, so winter visits have limited options. July and August bring warm temperatures and large crowds, with many day-trippers arriving. Book accommodations well in advance if visiting in summer.
