A Comprehensive Guide To Getting Around Capri, Italy

Welcome to the enchanting island of Capri, Italy, a top destination for travelers seeking breathtaking views, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Navigating this beautiful island haven can be tricky, but worry not – our comprehensive guide will help you explore the best transportation options available in Capri with ease.

From ferries and hydrofoils to private boats and walking routes, we’ve got you covered so that your journey is as smooth as possible.

Key Takeaways

• Capri offers various transportation options, including ferries/hydrofoils, buses, taxis, funiculars, walking routes and private boats/yachts.
• The top attractions in Capri – Marina Grande, Marina Piccola, Faraglioni Rock Formation, Villa San Michele and Blue Grotto – are easily accessible by public transportation or walking.
• When exploring the island on foot, wear comfortable shoes as some paths can be steep or uneven. It’s also important to respect local customs/traditions and know some basic Italian phrases.
• Private boat tours offer an exclusive way of experiencing Capri’s coastline but can be pricier than other modes of transport. Splitting a ride with friends could help keep costs down!

Transportation Options In Capri, Include A Table With The Pros And Cons Of The Various Travel Options

Ferries And Hydrofoils

Exploring the enchanting island of Capri, you’ll quickly discover that ferries and hydrofoils are your go-to transportation options for reaching this beautiful destination.

Ferries and hydrofoils depart from Naples and Sorrento regularly, and during the summer months, additional routes become available from Positano and Salerno.

Ferries tend to be more affordable than their faster counterparts – hydrofoils – but both offer comfortable seating options as well as plenty of room for your luggage.

For example, when I embarked on my adventure to Capri from Naples, I opted for a ferry ride that cost around 30 euro per person each way (a great deal!). Plus, if you’re interested in touring other nearby attractions such as Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast after exploring Capri’s wonders, concierge services can easily organize these additional excursions.

Buses

Navigating around Capri using public buses is an efficient and affordable option, especially for exploring the island on a budget. The public buses connect all major attractions, offering frequent services between Capri town center, Anacapri – a quieter area with various accommodations, and other popular destinations.  Check the official site of Capri town for the bus and funicular schedules and where to find a bus stop.

However, it’s important to note that during peak seasons like summer months or weekends when crowds flock in from nearby Amalfi Coast cities such as Positano or Sorrento via ferries, buses can be quite crowded.

Taxis

Navigating Capri by taxi is an excellent choice for those of you who prefer the comfort and convenience of private transportation. These iconic open-top convertible taxis, often painted in a vibrant blue or white hue, are famous throughout the island as they weave through narrow streets and around hairpin turns with charm and style.

For instance, after arriving by ferry at Marina Grande, I hopped into one of these chic cabs to check out Anacapri’s mesmerizing views without having to worry about coordinating my trip with bus schedules.

Funicular

One of the most popular and exciting transportation options in Capri is the funicular. This scenic cable car ride takes you from Marina Grande to Piazzetta, the heart of Capri’s social life.

The funicular runs every 15 minutes, starting at 6:30 a.m., and offers breathtaking views of the island as you travel uphill. It’s quick, efficient, and affordable (one-way fares are only EUR 2) – perfect for those who want to save time and money while exploring all that Capri has to offer.

Plus, it’s so much fun! You get a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape below as you glide up the mountain.

Walking

Walking is a great way to explore Capri, especially if you’re looking for some exercise while taking in the beautiful scenery. One of the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty is by hiking along its many trails.

For instance, one popular trail leads from Anacapri to Monte Solaro and provides breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding villages.  For the fit travelers, start at Marina Grande and walk your way up the Phonecian Steps to Anacapri, and then to the top of Monte Solaro.  It is not well marked, but if you are moving up, you are going in the right direction.

Additionally, walking can be a great way to save money while on vacation since it doesn’t require spending any transportation fees. However, keep in mind that some parts of the island have steep hills or uneven terrain that may not be suitable for everyone.

It’s also important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as well as stay hydrated during hot summer days when exploring Capri on foot.

Private Boats And Yachts

One of the most luxurious transportation options available in Capri, Italy is private boats and yachts. This offers a personalized approach to exploring the island’s pristine coastline and hidden coves, and a great way to visit the famous Blue Grotto.

Private tours are perfect for those who enjoy privacy, prefer to set their own itinerary and want to explore Capri’s surrounding areas such as Amalfi coast or Sorrento peninsula.

These tours offer access to secluded beaches that are not accessible by foot or car, including Marina Piccola beach which is only reachable by boat. It’s also an excellent way to beat the crowds during peak tourist season while enjoying panoramic views of the island from afar.

Scooters?  No

Sure it looks glamorous to rent a scooter in Italy, but I recommend against it.  Beyond all of the obvious reasons for concern, I will simply share that in a moment of poor parenting on an Italian Island, my son crashed a scooter and broke his thumb.  Lesson Learned.

Top Attractions In Capri And How To Reach Them

Discover the top attractions in Capri, including the iconic Faraglioni Rock Formation and Blue Grotto.

Marina Grande Capri

One of the busiest spots on Capri Island is Marina Grande, with its arrival pier. As the main transportation hub, visitors entering Capri by ferry will dock at this bustling harbor.

Not only is it a gateway to other parts of the island, but Marina Grande also boasts a pebble-covered beach that’s good enough for sunbathing or swimming in crystal-clear waters.

With its touristy waterfront restaurants and bars lining the shore, you can satisfy your hunger if you are short on time, while enjoying stunning views of luxurious boats sailing into the harbor. Additionally, several famous attractions associated with Capri Island are located near Marina Grande, including Gardens of Augustus and Piazzetta di Capri -the heart of the island-.

Marina Piccola

Marina Piccola is a stunning seaside village located on the south side of Capri island. Legend has it that the cliffs surrounding Marina Piccola were once home to the Sirens of mythology.

The bay offers a spectacular view of the Faraglioni and is an immensely popular tourist attraction in Capri.

You can reach Marina Piccola by taking a bus or taxi from Capri town center or by hiking down Via Krupp, which is considered one of the most scenic hikes in all of Italy.

From there, you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the glittering blue waters that surround this picturesque village.

Faraglioni Rock Formation

The Faraglioni rock formations are a must-see attraction when visiting Capri. These stunning rocks, which tower over 350 feet above sea level, have been shaped by millions of years of erosion from wind and sea spray.

You can view the Faraglioni on a boat tour or even go through the arches in the rock formations.

When I visited Capri, seeing the Faraglioni was one of my top priorities. I opted for a boat tour that not only gave me incredible views of the formations but also allowed me to swim in crystal-clear waters nearby.

Villa San Michele

One of the must-see attractions in Capri is Villa San Michele, located in Anacapri. This beautiful villa was built by Axel Munthe and features stunning gardens that overlooks the Gulf of Naples.

As an artist’s residence in the past, Villa San Michele has welcomed famous artists and writers such as Pablo Picasso and Somerset Maugham. Today, it serves as a museum where you can explore the history behind its construction while enjoying sweeping views over the island.  For a surprisingly interesting read about how this villa was built, read Munthe’s book, The Story of San Michelle.

Monte Solaro

One of the most breathtaking tourist attractions in Capri is Monte Solaro, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire island. This peak boasts an altitude of 589 meters and is situated in Anacapri, a small town on the western side of Capri.

To reach this high point, visitors can take a chairlift ride or hike up to experience this natural beauty firsthand. The chairlift provides an unforgettable adventure as it takes you from sea level to nearly 2,000 feet above ground with a magnificent view en route.

Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is one of Capri’s most iconic attractions, typically visited by boat from the Marina Grande. As you enter the grotto, the sunlight reflects off the underwater rocks and illuminates the water in a striking blue hue that seems almost otherworldly.

Taking a dip in these crystal-clear waters is truly an unforgettable experience. It’s important to note that visiting this enchanting sea cave can be tricky depending on weather conditions and crowds, so I recommend planning your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Tips For Navigating Capri

Plan your itinerary in advance, consider purchasing a transportation pass and wear comfortable shoes and clothing to navigate the crowds with ease.

Plan Your Itinerary In Advance

When visiting Capri, it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance, especially if you’re considering a three-day stay on the island. Although day trips are popular among tourists, they often don’t provide enough time to fully explore all Capri has to offer.

During a three-day stay in Capri, you’ll have plenty of time to visit top attractions like Villa San Michele and Monte Solaro without feeling rushed. It also allows for more flexibility in terms of transportation options – rather than relying solely on buses or taxis, you can rent a private boat or yacht and explore the island at your own pace.

Wear Comfortable Shoes And Clothing

It’s essential to bring comfortable shoes and clothing when planning your trip to Capri. Whether you’re exploring the island on foot, taking buses or ferries, or even using the funicular, there is always a lot of walking involved.

Trust me; you don’t want blisters ruining your vacation! When packing for Capri, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton and linen that will keep you cool in the Italian heat.

If you plan on hiking or visiting the island’s many hidden gems, pack good sturdy shoes that can handle uneven terrain and steep inclines.

When I visited Capri last year with my friends, we made sure to pack comfortable clothing that was also appropriate for sightseeing around town. Walking up Monte Solaro was an unforgettable experience but having comfortable sneakers made it more enjoyable .

Be Prepared For Crowds

Capri is a charming and captivating destination that attracts visitors from all around the world. However, with its popularity comes large crowds year-round, which can be overwhelming for some travelers.

To ensure a hassle-free travel experience, it’s essential to prepare for the crowds by adjusting your itinerary accordingly. Try visiting popular attractions like Villa San Michele or Faraglioni Rock Formation early in the morning or during less busy times of day. Early morning visits to these sites will ensure that you see them at their best.

Additionally, consider booking accommodations ahead of time to secure a spot on the island during peak season, when hotels may fill up quickly. Another tip is to pack lightly and wear comfortable shoes so you can easily navigate through crowded areas without feeling weighed down by heavy luggage or uncomfortable footwear.

Hire A Local Guide For Insider Information

One of the best things you can do is hire a local guide. These guides offer insider knowledge that won’t be found in any travel book or website.

Local guides are especially useful for navigating crowded areas on Capri, where it can be difficult to find your way around without getting lost or stuck in a crowd. They can help you plan your itinerary efficiently while avoiding peak times at popular attractions.  Our favorites are at Guide Capri.

Conclusion

In summary, Capri is a stunning island with plenty to see and do. Getting around the area can be challenging for first-time visitors, but this guide provides all the information you need to plan your trip and navigate like an expert.

From ferries and buses to funiculars and private boats, there are many transportation options available that suit different needs and budgets. The top attractions on the island are easy to reach by public transport or walking, so you won’t miss out on anything during your stay.

Be sure to check out the Capri Guide from the official tourism office.

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).