Are you ready to step into a world of dazzling beauty and fascinating history? Look no further than Capri off the Amalfi Coast, a captivating island located in the Gulf of Naples, Italy. From its iconic Blue Grotto to its charming towns and exquisite cuisine, Capri offers an unforgettable travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of this enchanting destination and help you plan your dream trip to this unique island. After visiting this small island a handful of times, I know that there is still more to discover on Capri with each trip.
To really experience Capri, you must make more than a day trip. The island is at its best in the quiet hours before the first ferry arrives, perhaps over coffee in the piazzetta, or near dusk over dinner, watching the sun fade into the sea.
Location and Accessibility
First things first, getting to Capri. Located in the Gulf of Naples, this island can be reached by ferry or hydrofoil from Naples or Sorrento. Taking a ferry from Naples to Capri’s main port takes around 50 minutes, while a hydrofoil takes 40 minutes. From Sorrento, the ferry takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Another option is the ferry from Positano. (I recommend against a private boat to get to the island, as the water can be choppy.)
Once you get to Capri, you can take a bus or a funicular to get around the island. However, if you want to explore the island at your own pace, it’s recommended to hire a private driver or hire a taxi to take you to the main places of interest. I love the convertible-topped taxis.
Best Time to Visit
When deciding when to visit Capri, there are a few factors to consider. The best time to visit the island is during the months of April to June or September to October. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are less dense, giving you a chance to enjoy the island’s attractions without feeling like you’re in a herd. July and August are just too crowded for my taste.
Additionally, if you’d like to experience any festivals or events, June is a great time to visit Capri as it’s the month of patron saint San Costanzo and his celebrations continue for two days. For the must up-to-date information on the island, check on the official Capri travel site.
Unique Features of Capri
Now, let’s talk about Capri’s unique features. Firstly, we have the Blue Grotto, a mesmerizing sea cave that illuminates with a glowing blue light. This is due to a unique combination of sunshine, reflection, and water. Visitors can access the grotto via wooden rowboats, which can be hired from the nearby dock.
Secondly, we have the Faraglioni rock formations, where visitors can take unforgettable photos and revel in their geological significance, which includes being made up of limestone and granite. Lastly, there’s the charming town of Capri with its picturesque streets and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for an evening stroll and sampling some local delicacies.
Those are the obvious places. Going further afield, I hope you have time to visit the charming town of Anacapri, with Villa San Michele, the home of Axel Munthe. The crystal water of the Green Grotto, yes, the Green Grotto are ideal for a swim. Perhaps you will have enough time to walk down to Marina Piccola and up to the top of Mount Solaro. Given the mountainous nature of the island, don’t expect to find long sprawling sandy beaches along the rugged coastline.
Accommodation and Dining
When it comes to accommodations, Capri town offers a range of options for all budget ranges, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. For those seeking a stay that’s out of the ordinary, you can try staying in a converted monastery or a luxurious villa.
Additionally, when it comes to dining, Capri has a range of traditional restaurants and eateries with authentic Caprese cuisine featuring delicious dishes like the Caprese salad, spaghetti alla Nerano, and the island’s signature limoncello. Dining in Capri is an experience that’s not to be missed. Previously we wrote about lunch at one of our favorite places, Da Gelsomina. While off the beaten path, you will be rewarded after lunch, lounging about the pool with the island of Ischia in the distance, all to the rhythm of poolside cocktails.
Popular Activities and Attractions
There’s so much to explore in Capri, you won’t run out of ideas for things to do. The island is famous for its boat tours, where visitors can explore sea grottos and hidden coves. Visitors can also try swimming or snorkeling in the island’s crystal-clear waters. I suggest a private boat tour around the island, as the best way to understand it. My favorite private boat tour is with Vincenzo Capri Boats, the half-day Gozzo with a skipper. Check out our previous post about swimming in the Blue Grotto. I would be remiss if I did not say that doing so is foolish, forbidden, and amazing. For those who want to explore the historical heritage of the island, a visit to Villa Jovis is a must. This ancient monument was built by the Emperor Tiberius and offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding seas.
Conclusion
Capri is an island full of beauty and surprises, offering visitors a unique travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary. With its fascinating history, stunning natural beauty, and incredible cuisine, Capri is a place you won’t forget. We hope that this guide has inspired you and given you some ideas for your next trip to Capri. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible destination.
About us
Sergio and Molly are a father daughter team, blogging about their love for Italy. Molly has visited Italy almost annually since she first learned to walk. Embracing her Italian heritage, she has dual citizenship, USA and Italy of course. Her day job in advertising gives her the artist’s eye to make the blog a reality. Sergio has been leading groups of family and friends to Italy for over two decades. He has learned to speak Italian through online lessons, and like Molly he has dual citizenship. We started our blog, www.notyourmamasitaly.com, as a way to share our passion for il bel paese (the beautiful country).
Oh, so much to do on the small, charming island.
Definitely, we love Capri!