If you’re planning a vacation to the Amalfi Coast, you won’t want to miss a day trip to Capri!
Capri is known around the world as one of the most beautiful places in Italy. And like St Tropez, Mykonos and Monaco, Capri is also known as one of Europe’s most glamorous destinations.
From designer boutiques to five-star hotels, Capri can definitely be a luxury getaway if you want to treat yourself! But of course, there’s so much more to this island than the glitz and glamour.
Set off of the Amalfi Coast, Capri is a beautiful gem in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Rocky cliffs jut out of the turquoise waters to form the island and islets that dot Capri.
Atop the cliffs are the two main towns of the island, Capri and Anacapri. And in between, countless picturesque lemon trees and olive groves.
Here’s how to spend one fabulous day in Capri, Italy!
How to Get to Capri
Because Capri is an island, the best way to day trip to Capri is by ferry, hydrofoil or private boat.
A Capri day trip from Naples is one of the most popular options and the fastest ferry can get you there in under an hour!
From Naples, there are two port options for departing to Capri: Porta di Massa and Beverello.
And, there are a few ferry options for Capri. You can opt for the slow ferry (traghetto), a faster ferry (Nave Veloce) or the hydrofoil (aliscato / jet) which is the fastest option.
The journey can take between 40 minutes to an hour and a half depending on the speed of the boat. And, of course, ticket prices will vary depending on which boat you decide on.
If you want to visit some of the other gorgeous islands in the Bay of Naples as well, you could travel between Procida, Ischia and Capri. If you want to travel from Ischia to Capri, the journey takes between 50 minutes to an hour and 25 minutes. Then from there, the ferry from Ischia to Procida is just 15 – 25 minutes!
→ Read Next: How to Spend One Day in Ischia
Ferries and hydrofoils leave daily in the peak summer season (May – September).
When is the Best Time to Visit Capri?
Like much of the Amalfi Coast, Capri is most visited during the summer months. May through September is peak season. The temperatures reach the high 80s and the weather is perfect for visiting Capri’s beaches or taking a boat trip around the island.
The shoulder season months of April and May or September and October will generally be less crowded than the peak summer months and may still offer nice weather.
The winter months are considered the off-season and many hotels, shops and restaurants will be closed. Because Capri is a residential island, you can still expect to find a couple of restaurants open and perhaps some hotels (with lower than normal rates!).
Villa San Michele and Garden of Augustus are both open year-round, and the chairlift to Anacapri is also operational in the winter as well. So, it is definitely possible to visit Capri during the winter and enjoy the island with no crowds!
However, if you would like to visit some of the islands beach clubs and enjoy a swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea, plan a visit during the summer or shoulder months.
How Much Time Do You Need in Capri?
Many people wonder, is Capri worth a day trip? Or is 1 day in Capri enough time? Since you can get to Capri in under an hour by taking the hydrofoil from Naples, I’d say that Capri is definitely worth a day trip!
With one day in Capri, you can see some of the island’s most famous points of interest like the Gardens of Augustus, Piazza Umberto I and the Faraglioni.
Now, do I think staying overnight in Capri is worth it? If you have the time and budget… totally! With two days in Capri, you can explore even more of the island by taking the chairlift to Anacapri or doing a boat trip around the island and visiting the Blue Grotto.
So, there are plenty of things to do in Capri for 2 days but, if you’re short on time or would prefer not to stay overnight, a day trip to the island is totally doable as well!
Capri One Day Itinerary
Here’s exactly what to do in Capri Italy with one day! This Capri itinerary covers some of the best things the island has to offer: beach clubs, beautiful gardens, scenic viewpoints and delicious dining.
Relax at La Fontelina Beach Club
One of the most iconic places in Capri is La Fontelina! Set on the rocky coastline, this beach club and restaurant has one of the best view points of the Faraglioni.
The Faraglioni are three towering rock formations jutting out of the sea. And, the trio of dramatic rock stacks have become emblematic of the island.
I recommend making a reservation in advance and arriving at La Fontelina around opening time to snag some sun loungers close to the water.
Spend the day sipping on Apersol spritz under the sun and floating in the turquoise waters. What could be better?
Also, don’t miss dining at their restaurant for lunch. The fresh seafood selection is incredible!
Explore Piazza Umberto I
After an incredible day spent in the sun, pop up to Piazza Umberto I (or informally called La Piazzetta). This is the most famous square located at the top of the island and is the center of the island’s social scene.
La Piazzetta is home to high-end boutiques of Italian fashion designers as well as little cafes and restaurants. So, grab a cappuccino and relax or do a little shopping!
Take in the views at Giardini di Augusto
Giardini di Augusto, or the Gardens of Augustus, are just minutes from the center of Capri and costs just 1 Euro to enter. The botanical gardens are lovely to stroll through but the best part is the scenic viewpoints.
Perched on the island’s edge, the Gardens of Augustus overlook the iconic Faraglioni! This is where you’ll find some of the absolute best views in Capri making Giardini di Augusto a must visit while on the island.
And, don’t miss the views of Via Krupp on the opposite side. This impressive pathway has hairpin turns and leads to Marina Piccola. However, it’s been permanently closed for several years due to falling rocks. It sure provides an interesting viewpoint from above though!
Dinner at Ristorante Panorama
This gorgeous restaurant is aptly named as it has panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. And the large open-air terrace in its quaint garden setting is the perfect place to watch the sun go down over the sea!
The menu at Ristorante Panorama features fresh seafood and delicious regional specialties like pizza Napoletana and Gnocchi alla Sorrentina.
Where to Stay in Capri
There are quite a few lodging options in Capri during the summer months! From luxury hotels perfect for honeymooners or mid-range to budget options for an overnight stay, here are the best hotels in Capri.
- Hotel Mamela (Luxury)
- Casa Morgano (Luxury)
- La Residenza Luxury Hotel (Luxury)
- Capri Tiberio Palace (Luxury)
- B&B Palazzo a Mare (Mid-range)
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