Capri is one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited, and I'm already planning my next trip. If you're planning a visit of your own, this guide covers everything you need to know, from the best things to do and where to eat to practical tips for making the most of your time on the island.
All About Capri
Capri is a small, rugged island in Southern Italy, just off the coast near Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. With its dramatic cliffs, beautiful sea views, and two distinct towns, it's one of those places that's worth more than a quick day trip if you have the time. There's no airport or bridge connecting Capri to the mainland, so you'll arrive by boat, with your first views of the island coming as you approach its rocky coastline.
If you're traveling from Naples, high-speed ferries and hydrofoils take around 40 minutes, while the crossing from Sorrento is even quicker at about 20 minutes. During the warmer months, seasonal ferries also connect Capri with Amalfi Coast towns like Positano and Amalfi.
I'd recommend booking your ferry tickets online in advance, especially if you're visiting in summer or on a weekend. You'll have a better chance of getting your preferred departure time, and you won't have to worry about buying tickets once you arrive at the port.
All ferries and hydrofoils arrive at Marina Grande, Capri's main harbor. From there, you can take the funicular straight up to Capri Town or catch a local bus or open-top convertible taxi to reach other parts of the island, including Anacapri. The two towns have quite different personalities, so it's helpful to know where you want to spend your time before you arrive.
Where to Visit: Capri vs. Anacapri
When planning your trip, it helps to know that the island is split into two distinct towns: Capri and Anacapri. Capri Town sits lower down and is the bustling, glamorous heart of the island, filled with luxury designer boutiques, high-end dining, and lively people-watching around the iconic Piazzetta.
Anacapri, located higher up the mountain ("ana" means "above"), offers a much more relaxed atmosphere, with quiet pedestrian lanes, local artisan shops, and panoramic views. If you're looking for nightlife, fine dining, and energy, Capri Town is the place to be. If you prefer a peaceful atmosphere, nature trails, and a glimpse of local life, Anacapri is the better choice.
If you're visiting Capri for a day trip, I'd suggest focusing on one town or the other. If you're staying overnight or for several days, you'll have plenty of time to explore both.
Things to Do in Capri
Beyond the stunning coastal views, Capri is an island made for wandering, shopping, and taking in a little history along the way. From beautiful villas and scenic gardens to luxury boutiques and artisan shops, there is plenty to see as you explore both Capri Town and Anacapri.
Visit Capri's Beautiful Villas and Gardens
High above Anacapri, Villa San Michele is one of my favorite places to visit, with beautiful terraced gardens and sweeping views across the Bay of Naples. Back in Capri Town, the Gardens of Augustus offer another incredible viewpoint, with a postcard-perfect view of the Faraglioni rising from the bright blue sea.
Walk Along Via Krupp
For one of the island's most scenic walks, head to Via Krupp, a winding path that curves down the cliffs between the Gardens of Augustus and Marina Piccola. The views along the way are beautiful, with the turquoise water and rugged coastline stretching out below. Just be sure to check whether it's open during your visit, as the path sometimes closes due to weather or falling rocks.
Should You Visit the Blue Grotto?
Personally, I'd skip it. While the glowing blue water is undeniably beautiful, waiting in a long line of boats for just a few minutes inside feels too touristy for me. I'd rather spend that time wandering the island, enjoying a long lunch, or taking in the views.
Shopping in Capri Town and Anacapri
And of course, you can't visit Capri without doing a little shopping. In Capri Town, Via Camerelle and Via Vittorio Emanuele are lined with luxury boutiques, including Chanel, Golden Goose, and Hermès, alongside some of the island's more historic shops. Carthusia is a favorite, with its beautifully crafted fragrances inspired by the island's citrus and botanicals.
Up in Anacapri, shopping feels a little more relaxed and local. Along Via Giuseppe Orlandi, you'll find family-run artisan shops like L'Arte del Sandalo Caprese, where sandals are made by hand, along with boutiques selling hand-painted ceramics, artwork, and other locally made pieces. It's a great place to wander without much of an agenda and see what catches your eye.
Capri Restaurant Recommendations
Capri has a good mix of casual spots and upscale dining. Whether you want a quick sweet treat while exploring town or a sit-down meal after a long day of walking, here are a few of my favorite spots.
• Buonocore Gelateria: Famous for making their warm waffle cones fresh to order right in front of you, this is the most popular gelato spot on the island. Don't miss it!
Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele, 35, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
• Lo Sfizio: A casual, local favorite located a short walk from the main town center, serving great Neapolitan-style pizza and traditional pasta dishes for lunch or dinner.
Address: Via Tiberio, 7/e, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
• Luce Capri: A modern restaurant tucked into a quiet lane, offering a great menu focused on fresh seafood and regional Italian plates.
Address: Via Sella Orta, 10, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
• Pedro: A relaxed bistro and bar right in Capri Town, making it a convenient stop for a quick lunch, light evening meal, or a glass of wine.
Address: Piazzetta Cerio, 11, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
Where to Stay in Capri
Where you stay on Capri shapes your entire experience, so choosing between Capri Town and Anacapri comes down to the style of trip you want. Capri Town puts you close to high-end dining, shopping, and nightlife, while Anacapri offers a more tranquil, cliffside escape surrounded by nature. Here are a few top-rated mid-range and luxury properties across both sides of the island.
• Hotel La Floridiana (Capri Town): A lovely 4-star boutique hotel tucked into a quiet residential lane, featuring classic Mediterranean decor, an outdoor pool, and sea views just a short walk from the main town center.
Address: Via Campo di Teste, 16, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
• Capri Tiberio Palace (Capri Town): An ultra-chic 5-star property known for its vibrant interior design, luxurious spa, and sweeping rooftop views over the sea and town.
Address: Via Croce, 11-15, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
• Hotel Caesar Augustus (Anacapri): Perched 1,000 feet above the cliffside in Anacapri, this iconic 5-star hotel features a cliff-edge infinity pool and incredible panoramic views across the Gulf of Naples.
Address: Via Giuseppe Orlandi, 4, 80071 Anacapri NA, Italy
• Capri Palace Jumeirah (Anacapri): A luxurious 5-star retreat located in the heart of Anacapri, known for its fine dining, world-class medical spa, and private art collection.
Address: Via Giuseppe Orlandi, 1, 80071 Anacapri NA, Italy
Final Thoughts on Capri
Capri is every bit as beautiful as you might imagine, but what I loved most about the island was how much there is to discover beyond the views. Spend time wandering its narrow lanes, stop for a long lunch, browse the boutiques, and leave yourself a little room in your itinerary to explore without a plan.
Between the dramatic coastline, beautiful hotels, excellent food, and unmistakable Italian atmosphere, Capri is a destination that's easy to fall in love with. I'm already planning my next visit, and I hope this guide helps you plan a trip of your own.
