Capri is a stunning island located in the Bay of Naples, off the coast of southern Italy. Capri is a world-renowned destination known for its natural beauty, glamorous atmosphere, and captivating history. With its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, Capri has been a favorite retreat for travelers, artists, and celebrities for centuries. Capri is known for its high-end shopping, with designer boutiques lining the streets of Capri Town. Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine at waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes.Capri’s natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.
The Same
We both absolutely loved this stunning island and it is a must when visiting Southern Italy.
Capri Town (Capri):
The main town of Capri, simply called Capri, is located on the island’s northern side. Explore the charming streets lined with upscale boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Visit the famous Piazzetta, a bustling square lined with cafes and known as the heart of Capri’s social scene. Don’t miss the Gardens of Augustus, offering panoramic views of the Faraglioni rocks and the sea.
Anacapri:
Located on the higher part of the island, Anacapri offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. Ride the chairlift to the top of Mount Solaro for breathtaking views of the island and the Bay of Naples. Visit Villa San Michele, the former home of Swedish physician Axel Munthe, which is now a museum and botanical garden.
- The chairlift to Mount Solaro offers an exhilarating journey to the highest point on Capri, providing panoramic views of the entire island and the Bay of Naples. As you ascend to the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the rugged coastline, the azure waters of the Mediterranean, and the charming towns below. The landscape transforms before your eyes as you rise above the lush vegetation, rocky cliffs, and picturesque villages of Capri. At the top of Mount Solaro, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views stretching as far as the eye can see. Take in the beauty of the surrounding islands, including Ischia and Procida, and marvel at the majesty of Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
Marina Grande and Marina Piccola:
Marina Grande is the island’s main port, where ferries and boats arrive from the mainland. Marina Piccola, located on the southern side of the island, offers a picturesque beach with clear blue waters.
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra):
One of Capri’s most famous natural attractions, the Blue Grotto is a sea cave illuminated by an ethereal blue light. Take a boat tour to enter the grotto and witness its mesmerizing beauty. Please note that the Blue Grotto is subject to weather conditions and sea conditions, and the grotto may be closed at times due to rough seas or high tides. It’s best to check in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
Faraglioni Rocks:
These iconic limestone sea stacks are one of the most recognizable landmarks of Capri. Take a boat tour around the rocks for the best views and photo opportunities.
Getting There
The Family has taken an escorted tour to Capris while on a Mediterranean cruise but also have taken the ferry over. The Dinks have only visited one taking the ferry. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, taking the ferry to Capri is a convenient and scenic way to reach this Italian gem.
- Departure Points: Ferries to Capri depart from several locations along the coast of Italy, with the primary departure points being
- Naples: The most popular and frequent departure point. Ferries leave from the Molo Beverello or Calata Porta di Massa ports.
- Sorrento: Located on the Sorrentine Peninsula, ferries leave from the Marina Piccola port.
- Amalfi and Positano: For those staying along the Amalfi Coast, there are seasonal ferries departing from these picturesque towns.
- Several companies operate ferry services to Capri. Some of the well-known operators include Hydrofoil Services (SNAV and Alilauro ), which offer fast hydrofoil services from Naples and Sorrento but slightly more expensive than traditional ferries and Regular Ferries (Caremar and NLG) which offer conventional ferry services with more frequent departure times.
- Book Your Tickets: Tickets can be purchased in advance online through the ferry operators’ websites or at the ferry terminals. For peak travel times, especially during summer, it’s a good idea to book early to secure your spot. You can also buy tickets directly at the port, but availability may be limited.
- Weather Considerations: Weather can impact ferry schedules, so be prepared for possible delays or changes in plans.
The DINKs
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra):
We took a boat tour to see the Blue Grotto unfortunately the seas were too rough and we were unable to enter. It was still nice to be on the water but obviously it was disappointing. We did get beautiful views of Faraglioni Rocks.
The Family
Our honeymoon in Capri was a dream come true. We were fortunate to spend a night on this enchanting island, and it was an experience we’ll never forget. As the sun dipped below the horizon, something truly magical happened—Capri transformed. Once the hordes of tourists boarded their final ferries back to the mainland, a serene calm settled over the island. Walking through the quiet streets of Capri at night, hand in hand, was a moment of pure bliss. The twinkling lights, the gentle sea breeze, and the romantic ambiance made it feel like we had the island all to ourselves. It was an unforgettable night of love and adventure under the starry skies of Capri.
Fast forward to our visit with kids, where we found ourselves on the Amalfi Coast for a wedding. Though we couldn’t spend the night in Capri this time, our memories of its nighttime allure lingered. Even during the day, Capri’s beauty was undeniable. We savored every moment exploring the island’s breathtaking landscapes, charming streets, and iconic sights. But with our little ones in tow and a wedding to attend, staying overnight was not an option. Instead, we made the most of our day trip, soaking in the island’s beauty and creating new memories with our family.
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra):
Both times we were lucky enough to visit the Blue Grotto. The Blue Grotto is one of Capri’s most iconic natural wonders, renowned for its mesmerizing azure blue waters and ethereal atmosphere. To reach the Blue Grotto, visitors board small rowboats from Marina Grande or other nearby ports. We rented a private boat for the day with kids as it the cost was similar to paying for 4 tour tickets. Once inside the grotto, visitors are awestruck by the stunning play of light and color. The intense blue hue of the water is created by the sunlight passing through an underwater cavity and reflecting off the limestone seabed. As the sunlight filters through the sea cave, it illuminates the water with an otherworldly glow, casting shadows and creating an enchanting ambiance.
Summary
In the end, both visits to Capri offered their own unique magic. While both the family and the DINKs explored iconic spots like the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni Rocks, Capri Town, and Anacapri, the family’s experience was made even more special by the serendipity of being able to enter the Blue Grotto on both occasions. Staying overnight allowed them to savor the island’s charm in a quieter, more intimate setting, after the day-trippers had left. Whether enjoying Capri’s bustling energy or its peaceful solitude, each visit highlighted the island’s timeless allure and the many ways it can be experienced and cherished.
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