The island of Capri, Italy is one of the most spectacular places to visit on the Amalfi Coast. The best things to do in Capri include taking a boat tour around the island, visiting the glowing Blue Grotto, riding the chairlift up to Monte Solaro, and exploring the towns of Capri and Anacapri. But the list goes well beyond those highlights, from the iconic Faraglioni sea stacks to the Gardens of Augustus with their sweeping coastal views, there’s more here than most visitors realize.
We’ve visited Capri twice, covering different experiences each time. Between those two trips, we’ve done the boat tour, the Blue Grotto, Monte Solaro, visited both towns, the coastal hiking trails, and more. That’s how we know which experiences are truly worth your limited time, and which ones you can skip.
In this guide, we share what we think are the 10 best things to do in Capri, the essential experiences for first-time visitors and day-trippers, plus additional things to do if you have more time on the island.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy and considering adding Capri to your itinerary, it is one of the most rewarding stops you can make on the Amalfi Coast.
Best Things to Do in Capri: Quick Picks
BEST OVERALL EXPERIENCE | Boat tour around Capri
MOST FAMOUS ATTRACTION | Blue Grotto
BEST VIEWPOINT | Monte Solaro and the chairlift
ICONIC PHOTOS | Blue Grotto interior, Faraglioni Rocks from the water, Via Krupp switchbacks
BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY ACTIVITY | Walk to the Faraglioni viewpoints
PLANNING A DAY TRIP? See our One Day in Capri itinerary
About Our Experiences in Capri
Our first visit was in 2014, during a trip around the world. We were traveling on a tight budget, with kids, and we questioned whether a day trip to Capri was worth the expense. It was. We took a boat tour of the island, spent a few minutes inside of the Blue Grotto, and rode the chair lift to Monte Solaro. We spent quite a bit of money, but it was the highlight of our time in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.
In 2022, Tim and I returned to Capri. On this visit, we also day tripped here from Sorrento, this time focusing more on the towns and viewpoints, since we already did the boat tour. We used a scooter to zip around the island and learned that there is a LOT to do here.
Even with two trips to Capri and without repeating any experiences, we still couldn’t get to everything on our to do list.
Which is exactly the point: if you’re day-tripping from Sorrento, Positano, or Naples, or just have a day or two on the island, you’ll need to pick and choose. This guide helps you do that.
April 2026 update: Revised pricing and logistics for the 2026 season. Added new sections on how to prioritize your time, is Capri worth it, and expanded FAQ based on reader questions.
Understanding Capri: Towns, Layout, and Key Areas
Before you visit Capri, it’s worth taking a few minutes to understand how the island is laid out, because it will save you a lot of confusion once you arrive.
The island has two towns: Capri and Anacapri. Throughout this guide, we refer to the town of Capri as “Capri town” to avoid confusion with the island itself. The two towns have very different personalities. Capri town is glitzier, busier, and home to the famous Piazzetta and luxury shopping streets, while Anacapri is quieter, slightly more local in feel, and sits higher up on the island.
Marina Grande is where your ferry will dock and where your time on the island begins. It’s also where boat tours of the island depart. From Marina Grande, you can reach Capri town by funicular, taxi, or bus.
One thing that surprises many visitors is how challenging it can be to get around. Cars are not permitted on the island, and some sights, like Villa Jovis, require a significant amount of walking to reach. Others, like the Punta Carena Lighthouse, take time to get to by bus or taxi. We cover transportation in detail below, but it’s worth knowing upfront that getting from one part of the island to another takes longer than you might expect.
Below is a map of Capri showing the top sights and their locations across the island, followed by an interactive map you can save directly to your Google Maps account.
Map of Capri, highlighting the main towns and main attractions
How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left corner of the map to see a list of the points of interest and to turn layers on/off. Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest.
To take this map with you, click the star next to the title of the map which adds it to your Google account. Next, within your Google Maps app, select ‘Saved’ and then select ‘Maps’. This map title will now appear in your list.
Best Things to Do in Capri
Capri has more to offer than most visitors realize. If you’re day-tripping from Sorrento, Naples, or Positano, or just have one or two days on the island, you’ll need to be selective.
Below are what we think are the 10 best things to do in Capri, the experiences we’d recommend to any first-time visitor, regardless of how much time you have. They’re ordered by how much we think they’re worth prioritizing, not by location or logistics.
1. Cruise Around the Island on a Boat Tour
If you do one thing in Capri, take a boat tour of the island. It’s short, it is a beautiful trip, and it is the best way to see the grottoes, beaches, sea stacks, and limestone cliffs.
There are two main companies that offer boat tours around the island, Laser and Motoscafisti Capri. Boat tours typically last 2 hours, cost approximately €24 per person, and make a full loop around the island. Boat tours are offered from mid-March through the end of October.
On a boat tour around the island, you will get close up views of several grottoes, such as the White Grotto and the Green Grotto, the chance to enter the Blue Grotto, and views of the Faraglioni rocks, Punta Carena lighthouse, and Tiberius’ Leap.
So, you get to see many of the natural highlights of Capri without walking, or waiting for buses and taxis.
It is also possible to book a private boat trip around Capri. This gives you the freedom to cruise around the island on your own schedule and stop at some places the shorter boat tours do not include (like the beaches and some restaurants that are located along the water).
Faraglioni rocks
The view of Capri from the water. Marina Piccola is on the left side of the photo and you can see the switchbacks of Via Krupp on the right side of the photo.
Punta Carena Lighthouse
Why it’s worth it: The single best way to see Capri’s dramatic coastline, sea caves, Faraglioni rocks, and limestone cliffs
What to expect: A 1–2 hour loop around the island departing from Marina Grande, with close-up views of the grottoes and Faraglioni rocks.
Is it worth it? Absolutely. This is the one experience we’d never skip, no matter how limited your time.
Cost: Approximately €24 per person. Private boat tours are also available at a higher price point.
2. Experience the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
The Blue Grotto is the most popular grotto, or sea cave, in Capri. Depending on who you talk to, some say the Blue Grotto is one of the best things to do in Capri and others say it isn’t worth the hype.
We visited the Blue Grotto during the busy month of July. It is one of the final stops on a boat tour of Capri. The only boats allowed into the Blue Grotto are rowboats, since the opening into the Blue Grotto is tiny. That means that you will have to wait to board one of these rowboats. That wait can be an hour or longer (we waited 45 minutes). And once inside, you only get 5 minutes in the Blue Grotto.
Worth it?
Despite the long wait and Tyler turning green as we waited to board the rowboat, for us, yes, it was worth it. Our kids both loved it. But if you have visited sea caves and grottoes previously, this may not be worth the time. Just note that if you book a boat tour that includes the Blue Grotto, even if you don’t want to do it, you will still have to sit and wait while other passengers wait their turn to board a rowboat.
Inside the Blue Grotto
Rowboats waiting to enter the Blue Grotto
PRACTICAL INFORMATION: It costs €18 per person to enter the Blue Grotto. The Blue Grotto will close when seas are rough and this decision is made every morning at 9 am.
Why it’s worth it: Capri’s most famous sight. A glowing sea cave where the water turns an extraordinary shade of electric blue.
What to expect: A wait of up to an hour to board a small rowboat, a quick duck through a tiny opening, and around 5 minutes inside the cave.
Is it worth it? Yes, but with conditions. If you visited sea caves before, it may not feel worth the wait. We loved it, and our kids did too, but go in with realistic expectations.
Cost: See our full Blue Grotto guide for current pricing and everything you need to know before you go.
3. Ride the Chairlift to the Top of Monte Solaro
For one of the best views of Capri, ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro.
We loved the views from the chairlift but they get even better once you are standing on Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island of Capri. From here, you can see the Faraglioni rocks, Mount Vesuvius, the Isle of Ischia, Sorrento, and the Bay of Naples.
Monte Solaro Chairlift
Monte Solaro | Neirfy/shutterstock.com
The view of the Faraglioni rocks from Monte Solaro
The view down to the boats near Marina Piccola
HOW TO DO THIS: In Anacapri, go to the lower station of the chairlift, which is called Seggiovia Monte Solaro. Tickets can be purchased here one-way (€11) or round trip (€14). It takes about 7 minutes to ride the chairlift one-way. Once you exit the chairlift station, there are viewing platforms to visit. A visit here lasts about 45 minutes, which includes the round-trip chairlift ride.
Why it’s worth it: Monte Solaro is the highest point on the island, and the views from the top of the Faraglioni rocks, Mount Vesuvius, the Isle of Ischia, Sorrento, and the Bay of Naples are the best on Capri.
What to expect: A 7-minute chairlift ride from Anacapri to the summit, followed by a short walk to the viewing platforms. The full visit takes around 45 minutes round trip.
Is it worth it? Yes, it is one of our favorite experiences on the island and our kids’ highlight of the entire trip.
4. Wander the Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto)
This small botanical garden offers some of the best views of Capri. The gardens are located just down the hill from the town of Capri, about a 5-minute walk one-way from the main shopping streets.
Pay your entrance fee and walk uphill for a view of Via Krupp (mentioned next on our to do list).
Via Krupp
Then climb the steps to the upper platform, where gorgeous views of the Faraglioni rocks and coastline await.
Before you leave, stroll past the flower beds and tropical flowers or have your photo taken on the colorfully tiled bench. All of our photos are from our visit at the end of October, so even in autumn, the gardens are beautiful to visit.
The view from Giardini di Augusto. Capri Rooftop is the restautant on the left side of this photo.
Giardini di Augusto
PRO TRAVEL TIP: If you want a cold drink, cup of coffee, cocktail, or a light meal, go next door to Capri Rooftop. This restaurant and bar has an outdoor terrace with sofas and tables and chairs. From here, you have similar views of the coast and the Faraglioni rocks. The serve good drinks, salads, and other healthy dishes.
Capri Rooftop
Why it’s worth it: One of the best viewpoints on the island and from here you get a stunning aerial view of Via Krupp’s famous switchbacks and the Faraglioni rocks beyond.
What to expect: A small but beautiful botanical garden with two viewing platforms, colorful flower beds, and tropical plants. It’s a 5-minute walk from Capri town’s main shopping streets.
Is it worth it? Yes, especially since it’s quick, easy to reach, and pairs perfectly with Via Krupp and the Capri Rooftop bar next door.
5. Walk the Famous Switchbacks of Via Krupp
Via Krupp is a famous, winding walkway on the island of Capri. It connects the town of Capri with Marina Piccola. It was constructed by Friedrick Alfred Krupp, a rich steel tycoon who wanted a quick and easy way to walk from his residence in Capri to his yacht in Marina Piccola.
Via Krupp
After being closed for 10 years, Via Krupp recently reopened. There is a small fee to walk this path, which descends down to Marina Piccola. From Marina Piccola, you can return to the town of Capri on foot, hire a taxi, or take the bus.
HOW TO GET HERE: You can get a view of Via Krupp (and walk the path to Marina Piccola) from Giardini di Augusto, which is a 5-minute walk from the Capri city center.
Why it’s worth it: One of the most photographed paths in Italy — a dramatic zigzagging walkway carved into the cliffside connecting Capri town to Marina Piccola.
What to expect: A steep descent down to Marina Piccola with spectacular coastal views along the way.
Is it worth it? Yes, the views of the switchbacks from the Gardens of Augustus alone are worth it, and walking the path itself adds a memorable perspective of the coastline.
6. Spend Some Time in Capri Town and the Famous Piazzetta
No visit to Capri is complete without spending time in Capri town.
Most likely you’ll arrive here by funicular from Marina Grande. Step off and you’re immediately in Piazza Umberto I, better known as the Piazzetta. Dubbed “the world’s living room,” this tiny, lively square is the social heart of the island, ringed by café tables, historic buildings, and more well-dressed people than you’ve ever seen in one place.
Grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and watch the world go by for a few minutes, it’s one of those quintessentially Capri moments.
Piazza Umberto I
From the Piazzetta, shopping streets fan out in every direction. Stroll Via Camerelle for its collection of high-end boutiques — Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton — and then continue along Via Tragara, a beautiful, quieter lane lined with elegant villas that ends at a stunning viewpoint over the Faraglioni rocks.
Via Camerelle
Via Camerelle
Before you leave Capri town, get a scoop from Buonocore Gelateria, a much more budget-friendly stop than the shops just mentioned, and widely considered the best gelato on the island.
Buonocore Gelateria
Why it’s worth it: The heart of the island. The famous Piazzetta, luxury shopping streets, and the best gelato in Capri are all here.
What to expect: A busy, glamorous town that gets crowded midday in peak season. Arrive early or late afternoon to avoid the worst of the crowds. Don’t leave without a scoop from Buonocore Gelateria.
Best for: First-time visitors, shoppers, people-watchers, and anyone who wants to experience Capri’s famous see-and-be-seen atmosphere.
7. Marvel at the Iconic Faraglioni Rocks
These have already been mentioned a few times in this guide. The Faraglioni rocks are one of the most iconic sights in Capri, so we are giving them its own entry, just to show its importance.
You can see the Faraglioni rocks on a boat tour, from the Augustus Gardens, from the Capri Rooftop restaurant and bar, from Monte Solaro, and while walking the Pizzolungo Coastal Trail.
The Faraglioni Rocks from Monte Solaro
Why it’s worth it: The most iconic image of Capri, three towering limestone sea stacks rising dramatically from the water, and you can see them from multiple spots around the island.
What to expect: You don’t need to go out of your way to see the Faraglioni. They’re visible from the Gardens of Augustus, Monte Solaro, the Capri Rooftop bar, and on any boat tour. The Pizzolungo Coastal Trail gets you closest on foot.
Is it worth it? Yes, and the beauty of it is that you’ll see them naturally as part of other experiences without needing to plan a separate visit.
8. Linger Over Lunch or Drinks with a Coastal View
One of the best things to do in Capri is to have drinks or a meal with a view.
Already mentioned is Capri Rooftop, which sits next to Giardini di Augusto near Capri town and offers views of the Faraglioni rocks.
La Palette Ristorante is located on Via Matermania has views over Capri town and the north side of the island. You can include this with the walk to Arco Naturale, mentioned next.
Other restaurants with a beautiful view of the island include Ristorante Panorama and Ziqu Terrace Restaurant.
La Palette Ristorante
Why it’s worth it: Capri has some of the most spectacular restaurant views in Italy, and sitting down with a drink overlooking the Faraglioni Rocks or the coastline is one of those travel moments you won’t forget.
What to expect: Prices are high; this is Capri. But even a single cocktail at the right spot is worth budgeting for.
Best for: Couples, special occasions, or anyone who wants to slow down and actually absorb where they are.
9. Discover Capri’s Hidden Natural Arch
Arco Naturale is another iconic natural monument on Capri.
There are two ways to see it.
The easiest way is on a boat tour of the island. Or, you can get here on foot.
From Capri town, it is a 35-minute one-way walk to get to the viewpoint of Arco Naturale. It will be a mostly gradual, uphill walk on a narrow, pedestrian street lined with stone walls and houses. The arch is nice to see, but walking over an hour round trip to see a stone arch may not be the way you want to spend your valuable time in Capri, which is why it is listed 9th on our list.
Just before you get to the arch is a small restaurant with coastal views called Le Grottelle. It was just closing up for the season while we were here and gets decent reviews.
The terrace of Le Grottelle and you can see the top part of Arco Naturale.
Why it’s worth it: A striking natural limestone arch on the eastern end of the island, most dramatic when seen up close on foot.
What to expect: A 35-minute one-way walk from Capri town on a narrow pedestrian path. The arch itself is impressive, but the round trip is over an hour of walking.
Is it worth it? Only if you have extra time and enjoy walking. With a limited day, that hour is better spent elsewhere, because you can see it from the water on a boat tour.
10. Explore the Quieter Side of the Island in Anacapri
Anacapri is another town on the island of Capri. It’s nice to visit in that it feels less touristy, and it is definitely a lot less crowded than Capri town. The list of sights to see is small, but there are a few good restaurants and shops to visit as well.
In Anacapri, visit the Church of San Michele to see the amazing tiled floor (the best view is from the upper terrace), Museo Casa Rossa di Anacapri, stroll through Piazza Diaz and see the Church of Saint Sophia, and stroll along Via Giuseppe Orlandi, the main shopping street in Anacapri.
Church of Saint Sophia
The clock on the Church of Saint Sophia
How to Get to Anacapri: You can get to Anacapri by taking a bus from the Blue Grotto, Capri, or Marina Grande. You can also get here by taxi or scooter.
Why it’s worth it: Capri’s quieter, less touristy town sits higher on the island and has a completely different character from Capri town. It’s more relaxed, more local, and less crowded.
What to expect: Charming streets, local shops, and the base station for the Monte Solaro chairlift. Most visitors pass through Anacapri on the way to Monte Solaro, but we recommend spending at least 30 minutes exploring the town itself.
Best for: Visitors who want to see a different side of Capri beyond the glitz of Capri town, and anyone doing the Monte Solaro chairlift.
More Things to Do in Capri with Extra Time
If you’re spending more than one day on the island, or you’ve already done the essentials and want to go deeper, Capri has plenty more to offer.
The experiences below didn’t make our top 10, not because they aren’t worth doing, but because most day-trippers simply won’t have time for them. With a second day, or even a long afternoon to spare, any of these are worth adding to your itinerary.
Walk the Pizzolungo Coastal Trail
The Pizzolungo Coastal Trail, also called Via del Pizzolungo, is a walking trail that leads to several viewpoints on the southeast end of the island. Arco Naturale is an easy and worthwhile addition to this walk.
Before getting into what you will see along the walk, it’s important to know that this walk is 3.2 km (2 miles) and it will take about an hour and a half to two hours. It is paved the entire way, but you will walk up and down long sets of steps. In the summer months, it will be a hot walk, so keep this in mind and bring some water.
The walk is done as a loop and the best direction to do it is clockwise, to avoid a massive stair climb.
Starting in Capri Town, take Via le Botteghe to Via Matermania to Via Arco Naturale (this route is marked on our Google Map earlier in this guide). At Le Grottelle, a small restaurant, walk the short trail out to see Arco Naturale, and then return back to Le Grottelle. If you need to refill your water or get a bite to eat, this is the best place to do it.
From Le Grottelle, turn left onto Via del Pizzolungo. If you are walking down a long series of staircases, you are in the right spot. We did this walk in the opposite direction and I can tell you that these steps are a beast to climb.
This is just one of many staircases along Via del Pizzolungo. It’s best to go clockwise on this loop so you walk down these steps, not up them.
In a few minutes, you will enter Grotta di Matermania, a cave where the gods of the woods were celebrated in ancient times.
Grotta di Matermania
The steps continue into the woods a little farther. After a short, uphill climb, you exit the forest and begin the best part of the trail. The paved trail weaves along the coastal cliffs, taking you to several great viewpoints, our favorite being Belvedere del Pizzolungo.
Pizzolungo Coastal Trail
The view from Belvedere del Pizzolungo
You can take the detour to Villa Malaparte for more coastal views, but it is a downhill walk to get there, and then it will be a tough uphill walk to get back onto Via del Pizzolungo (we skipped it).
On this walk, the last viewpoint you will see is Belvedere Tragara, for another view of the Faraglioni rocks. To return to Capri town, walk Via Tragara into town and it is roughly a 15-minute walk from this viewpoint.
The view from Belvedere Tragara
As you walk through Capri Town, there are maps and signs indicating directions and walking times to viewpoints and attractions. These are very handy in getting around town and walking out to places like Arco Naturale and Villa Jovis. You can also look for the tiled signs on the street corners.
Via Tragara
The walking trails throughout Capri are well marked with signs like this one. At the bottom, the map lists the walking times to nearby places to visit.
Enjoy the View from Villa San Michele
Villa San Michele is located in Anacapri. It was the home of Swedish physician Axel Munthe and it is famous for its view over the Bay of Naples, the gardens, and the 3,200 year old Sphinx overlooking the coast.
Villa San Michele | Nido Huebl/shutterstock.com
To get to Villa San Michele, take the bus to Anacapri and then it is a 5-minute walk to the villa from Piazza Vittoria. The villa is open all year. Get updated hours and pricing on the official website.
Visit Marina Grande
Marina Grande is the gateway onto Capri. It is a chaotic spot, with multiple ferries coming and going, boat tours leaving for the Blue Grotto, and groups of tourists following guides waving tiny, colorful flags.
There’s no big attraction or must-see sight here, but this is the place to catch the next mode of transportation to wherever you are going next, whether it be a boat to the Blue Grotto, the funicular to Capri town, or a bus or a taxi.
Marina Grande
Visit the Much Smaller Marina Piccola
On the opposite side of the island is a smaller marina, Marina Piccola. It is home to a small pebbly beach and some restaurants. To get here, take a bus, taxi or scooter, or get here on a boat tour.
Venture Out to Villa Jovis
Villa Jovis was one of 12 villas that Tiberius had on the island of Capri. Most of the villa remains as ruins and at the end of the Villa is Tiberius’ Leap, a place on the cliffs where ill-behaved servants were thrown into the sea.
We were very interested in visiting this historic site, until we learned that it is a 45-minute uphill slightly strenuous walk, one-way, to get to the villa from Capri town (you can’t get here by bus or scooter). Overall, the entire visit takes 2 to 2.5 hours and with our limited time on the island, we decided to give this one a pass.
Villa Jovis | Inu/shutterstock.com
Leave the Crowds Behind at Villa Lysis
Villa Lysis is also located a fair distance from Capri town and the only way to get here is on foot. This beautiful villa was built in 1904 by Jacques d’Adelswärd Ferse, a Parisian count, and lived here with his lover, Nino Cesarini. The villa became a meeting point for other creative people, such as poets, writers, and artists, in the early 1900’s.
To get here from Capri town, it is a slightly strenuous 45-minute uphill walk one-way. The entire visit will last 2 to 2.5 hours, which includes walking time.
Villa Lysis | Roman Plesky/shutterstock.com
Punta Carena Lighthouse
The Punta Carena Lighthouse is located on a rocky cliff on the southwest corner of Capri. This area feels far removed from busy Capri town and Anacapri.
Faro Beach (Lido di Faro) sits just down the hill from the lighthouse. There are a couple of bars here with a relaxed vibe.
Faro Beach
If you walk the short path (about a 1-minute walk) that runs next to the lighthouse, it will take you out to Belvedere Del Sognatore. From here you get a nice view of the coastline and lighthouse.
The view from Punta Carena
This area is a pretty spot to visit and much quieter than other places we visited on Capri. However, if you take a boat tour of the island, you will get great views of this area. In our opinion, Faro Beach is only worth it for those who will be staying on Capri and want to visit a less touristy beach.
You can get to Faro Beach and the lighthouse by bus, taxi, and scooter. It’s a 45-minute downhill walk from Anacapri.
How to Get to Capri
To reach Capri, you’ll take a ferry from Naples, Sorrento, or Positano. Ferries run frequently throughout the day, and the ride is short enough from all three departure points that Capri works easily as a day trip.
We recommend booking your tickets in advance using Ferryhopper.com. It lists every company and time slot in one place, making it far easier than checking individual ferry websites. Tickets can also be purchased at the port on the day, but popular departures do sell out, even in shoulder season.
PRO TRAVEL TIP: Book your return ferry before you arrive on the island. On our most recent visit at the end of October, which was well outside peak season, the later afternoon ferries were already sold out by the time we thought to book. Aim for a return no earlier than 4pm to give yourself a full day.
From Sorrento
From Sorrento, the ferry ride lasts 20 to 25 minutes and costs roughly €25. There are numerous companies that offer transportation to and from Sorrento, with multiple ferries arriving each hour of the day in Capri, from 7 am through the early evening.
From our experience, there is not much different between the boats operated by the ferry companies. If you are prone to seasickness, you could schedule a ride on a hydrofoil, which tends to be a more stable boat.
From Naples
Like Sorrento, there are frequent ferries running between Naples and Capri. The trip lasts 50 minutes and costs roughly €30. We recommend booking your tickets in advance using the Ferryhopper.com website.
From Positano
There are several ferries running back and forth between Positano and Capri. The journey lasts 30 minutes and costs about €28 one-way. We recommend booking your tickets in advance using the Ferryhopper.com website.
Marina Grande
How to Get Around Capri
Visitors are not permitted to bring cars onto the island. To get around, you can take the bus, hire a taxi, take a boat tour, walk, ride the funicular and/or chair lift, or hire a scooter. Most likely, you will use a combination of these.
What you choose to do affects the type of transportation you need. For each of the things to do on Capri that we list below, we also list how to get there, which is essential to know before you go.
By Bus
The buses on Capri are small, minibuses (since the roads are narrow and winding). There are bus stations in Marina Grande, Capri, Anacapri, Marina Piccola, the Punta Carena Lighthouse, and the Blue Grotto. For bus schedules and pricing, click here.
By Taxi
You can hire a taxi for the full day or just to get from one point to another. Taxi’s look like oversized, convertible cars. Taxi fares vary and you can learn more here.
The Funicular
There is a funicular that runs from Marina Grande to Capri. The town of Capri sits up in the hills and the funicular eliminates what would be a long, uphill walk into town. It runs every 15 minutes from early morning to 10 pm. In the afternoon, expect long lines to get back on the funicular, so budget time for this, or walk or take a taxi.
The view from the top of the funicular
The Chairlift
A chairlift connects Anacapri with Monte Solaro. Riding this chairlift is one of the best things to do in Capri because the views are wonderful. It was our kids’ favorite experience on the island. The schedule varies by season and costs €14 for a round trip ticket. Learn more here.
By Scooter
On our second trip, we rented a scooter. That gave us the ability to drive around on our own schedule and to reach remote viewpoints on our own. But to drive a scooter, you must have lots of experience. The scooter company will not rent you a scooter if you are new to doing this. The roads are narrow and winding with tight turns and lots of traffic. It can be dangerous to get around on a scooter, so if you have any doubts as to your abilities, take the bus or hire a taxi.
We rented a scooter from Rent Scooter Alfano, which is located on Via Marina Grande, about a 3-minute walk from Marina Grande.
By Boat
Most boat tours make one big loop around the island, starting and ending at Marina Grande. It’s possible to take a boat tour around the island, see the Blue Grotto, and then go right to Anacapri from here. This is what we did on our first visit to Capri and it worked very well, since it saved us a lot of transportation time. We lay out exactly how to do this in our Blue Grotto Guide.
It’s also possible to simply hire a boat at Marina Grande and travel out and back to the Blue Grotto.
How Much Time Do You Need on Capri?
The majority of visitors come to Capri on a day trip from Sorrento, Naples, or Positano, and a full day is absolutely enough to hit the highlights. But “a full day” means arriving on an early ferry and leaving on a late one. If you take a mid-morning ferry and plan to head back by 3pm, you’ll feel rushed and end up skipping things you wished you’d done.
Here’s a realistic breakdown by time available:
One day in Capri A full day gives you enough time for a boat tour, the Blue Grotto, the Monte Solaro chairlift, and a quick explore of either Capri town or Anacapri, but not both in depth. You’ll need to move efficiently and make choices. See our One Day in Capri itinerary for a minute-by-minute breakdown of exactly how to spend it.
Two days in Capri Two days is the sweet spot. You can do everything in the top 10 without rushing, spend proper time in both Capri town and Anacapri, add a scenic hike, and actually sit down for a long lunch with a view. This is the amount of time we’d recommend if your schedule allows it.
Three or more days in Capri With three or more days you can move at a slower pace, explore the With More Time experiences above, spend a morning at Marina Piccola, and experience the island once the day-trippers have headed back to the mainland, which is when Capri is at its most magical.
PRO TRAVEL TIP: Regardless of how long you’re staying, plan to be on one of the first ferries of the day. The island gets significantly more crowded as the morning progresses, and early arrivals get the Blue Grotto queues, the chairlift, and the Piazzetta without the midday rush.
Best Time to Visit Capri
Capri is open to visitors from April through October, with the island largely shutting down from November through March.
Our top pick: September and October This is when we’d send our closest friends. We visited Capri in late October, and it was one of the highlights of our entire Amalfi Coast trip. The crowds had thinned dramatically, the weather was warm and sunny, the light was stunning, and the island felt like it belonged to us rather than thousands of day-trippers. Prices drop, ferry tickets are easy to come by, and you can actually linger at the Piazzetta without fighting for a table. If you have any flexibility in your travel dates, aim for late September or October.
May and June Our second recommendation. The weather is warm, the island is fully open, and the summer crowds haven’t yet peaked. Late May in particular is a sweet spot, because everything is running but the July and August intensity hasn’t arrived yet.
July and August Peak season. Our first visit to Capri was in July. Capri is still absolutely worth visiting, but expect maximum crowds, higher prices, and the longest Blue Grotto wait times of the year. Book everything well in advance and arrive on the earliest ferry possible.
April A quieter option for visitors focused on sightseeing rather than swimming. The island reopens around Easter, but some services may still be running limited schedules and the water is cool.
The view of Capri from Via Giuseppe Orlandi near Hotel San Michele
Tours of Capri
If you prefer to visit Capri on a guided tour, here are some of the best tours of Capri. Some of these are full day trips and some are half day boat tours of Capri.
Tours of Capri
Is Capri Worth It?
Yes, without hesitation. But what makes Capri worth it depends entirely on who you are and how you visit.
We’ve been to Capri twice, under very different circumstances, and both trips delivered. Our first visit was in July 2014 with our kids, then 9 and 11, during the height of peak season. It was crowded, expensive, and logistically demanding, but they still talk about it. The boat tour, the Blue Grotto, and the Monte Solaro chairlift were the highlights. For a family with kids who are up for adventure, Capri absolutely delivers.
Our second visit was in October 2022, just Tim and me. We rented a scooter, zipped around the island on our own schedule, did a little hiking, browsed the shops on Via Camerelle, and lingered over drinks with a view of the Faraglioni rocks. It was a completely different experience — quieter, more relaxed, and in some ways even better. The October light on the coastline alone was worth the ferry ticket.
Two very different trips. Two very different versions of Capri. Both absolutely worth it.
How to Prioritize Your Time in Capri
Not sure where to start? Use your travel style as a guide:
Hate crowds? Visit in September or October, arrive on the first ferry, and consider skipping the Blue Grotto. The wait is where most of the pain is. Prioritize Monte Solaro and the Gardens of Augustus instead.
Traveling with kids? Lead with the boat tour and Blue Grotto while energy is high, then ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro. These three experiences were the highlight of our kids’ entire Amalfi Coast trip.
Love views? Monte Solaro is non-negotiable. Add the Gardens of Augustus, Via Tragara, and a drink at Capri Rooftop for an afternoon of nothing but spectacular coastline.
Want to feel like a local? Head to Anacapri first, before the day-trippers arrive. Have lunch there, explore the quieter streets, and save Capri town for late afternoon when the crowds have thinned.
On a tight budget? The Faraglioni viewpoints are free. So is wandering Capri town and the Piazzetta. The boat tour is the one splurge we’d never skip, because it covers more of the island in two hours than you could see on foot in a full day.
Only have half a day? Boat tour, chairlift to Monte Solaro, and a quick walk through Capri town. In that order. Don’t try to squeeze in the Blue Grotto because the wait alone could eat your entire afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Capri most famous for?
Capri is most famous for the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with extraordinarily vivid blue water, and the Faraglioni, three dramatic limestone sea stacks rising from the water that have become the defining image of the island. Beyond those two icons, Capri is known for its glamorous atmosphere, luxury shopping, celebrity history, and spectacular coastal scenery. It has been a playground for the wealthy and famous since Roman times, when Emperor Tiberius built his villa here.
What should I not miss in Capri?
If you only have one day, don’t miss the boat tour around the island, the Monte Solaro chairlift, and at least a short walk through Capri town and the Piazzetta. If you have time for one more experience, the Gardens of Augustus offer some of the best views on the island for a very small entry fee.
Is Capri expensive?
Yes, Capri is one of the more expensive destinations in Italy. A boat tour runs around €24 per person, the Blue Grotto adds another €18 on top of that, and the Monte Solaro chairlift is around €14 round trip. Meals and drinks are priced at a significant premium compared to the mainland, with a cocktail at a view restaurant can easily run €15 to €20. That said, several of the best experiences on the island are free: the Faraglioni viewpoints, wandering the Piazzetta, and walking Via Krupp cost nothing. Budget carefully and Capri is absolutely manageable for a day trip.
Can you do Capri as a day trip?
Yes, and the majority of visitors do exactly that, arriving by ferry from Sorrento, Naples, or Positano and returning in the late afternoon or early evening. A full day gives you enough time to hit the highlights comfortably, provided you take an early ferry and plan your time well. For a detailed hour-by-hour breakdown of how to make the most of one day on the island, see our One Day in Capri itinerary.
Is Capri good for families with kids?
Absolutely. We brought our kids to Capri when they were 9 and 11 and it was the highlight of their entire Amalfi Coast trip. The boat tour is endlessly entertaining for children, the Blue Grotto feels genuinely magical at that age, and the Monte Solaro chairlift was our kids’ single favorite experience on the island. The main challenge is the cost, because a family day trip adds up quickly. But for kids who are up for a little adventure, Capri delivers in a big way.
Is the Blue Grotto worth it?
It depends, and the honest answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Wait times can stretch to an hour or more, the visit inside lasts just five minutes, and the grotto closes entirely when seas are rough. We visited with our kids and loved it, but it’s not for everyone. For everything you need to know before you decide, including current pricing, how to minimize your wait, and our honest verdict, see our guide to the Blue Grotto.
Planning Your Capri Visit
Most visitors come to Capri as a day trip from Sorrento. If you need help planning your time on the island, our One Day in Capri itinerary lays out exactly how to spend the day hour by hour, including how to sequence the boat tour, Blue Grotto, and Monte Solaro to make the most of your time.
Before you decide whether the Blue Grotto is worth adding to your day, read our Blue Grotto guide. It covers current pricing, wait times, and our honest verdict on whether it lives up to the hype.
Capri is best visited as part of a longer Amalfi Coast trip, and Sorrento makes the most logical base. Our things to do in Sorrento guide covers the best of that town, and if you want a ready-made plan, our Sorrento itinerary includes a Capri day trip as one of its dedicated days.
If you have any questions about the best things to do in Capri, let us know in the comment section below.
More Information for Your Trip to Italy
We have TONS more information about Italy in our Italy Travel Guide, including Rome, Florence, Venice, Tuscany, the Dolomites, the Amalfi Coast, the Cinque Terre, Sicily, and Puglia.
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