We want to tell you about the island of Capri, today. About its lights and shadows, where «shadows» don’t mean problems (there will be some, but we won’t look for them) but hidden, secret places, less touristy and equally beautiful. You can’t ignore the classic beauties of this special island, but you shouldn’t get stuck in the obvious either. Go look for what… no one else is looking for! How? Simple! Land at Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP) and rely on one of our chauffeured transfers—comfortable, fast, and, above all, suitable to your needs—that will take you to the port of Naples or the Sorrento piers to catch the ferries to Capri. Your most beautiful vacation has just begun!
A beautiful «slipper»
From afar, Capri appears like a long, elegant slipper floating off the Sorrento peninsula. Unlike other islands in the Gulf of Naples, its origins are not volcanic. Capri became an island when the strip of rock connecting it to the coast collapsed. Divided between the territories of two municipalities, Capri and Anacapri, it is famous throughout the world thanks to wonders such as the white sea stacks, the Blue Grotto, and the villas of the wealthy lords who have called it home since the 19th century.
The traditional tour of Capri
Capri is rich in natural and architectural jewels, and it is these that tourists want to admire when they arrive. The traditional tour of the island cannot be ignored, because Capri’s wonders are worth it.
Marina Grande is Capri’s official «welcome» to visitors. Its harbor, surrounded by colorful houses, is the most beautiful jewel, housing the «Piazzetta» within. The town’s central square is actually called Piazza Umberto, but now, for everyone, it’s simply «la piazzetta» (little square): it is known for better or worse, for its delicious cafés and live events but also for its strict dress code and noise restrictions that often stifle the exuberance of tourists.
Another must-see are Via Camerelle, the shopping street, and Via Tragara, which offers breathtaking views of the stacks. Walking along the artistic Via Krupp, which zigzags up the cliffs, you reach the Gardens of Augustus and the nearby Convent of San Giacomo. Villa Jovis, the imperial residence of Tiberius, is the oldest monument and while visiting it… among its well-preserved walls, columns, and pools… you shall feel a Roman yourself. Finally, if you love historical relics, you shouldn’t miss the obligatory visit to Anacapri’s archaeological museum displaying the island’s ancient remains.
A boat tour of the island is another “must”, especially for a close-up view of the three stacks (the Faraglioni) and the spectacular Blue Grotto. Remember! The grotto tour isn’t always possible: for safety reasons, you must wait for good conditions, with calm sea and low tide, to do it.
Capri Beaches
Contrary to popular belief, beaches aren’t Capri’s main attraction. They are small, pebbly, and not very comfortable—particularly because you have to book way in advance! But if you manage to sunbathe in one of these little corners of paradise, you’ll experience the privilege of diving into a clean sea full of underwater surprises. The best-known beaches are Marina Grande, Marina Piccola, Fontelina, and Lido Luigi.
Special secret Capri
Do not settle for the «usual tour» only. Once on the island, seek out those lesser-known and quieter spots, where you can be moved by the beauty without the tourist stress. Here are a few worth seeing.
The Belvedere dei Leoni (lions’ balcony) for example. It is located near the Gardens of Augustus and offers a much more expansive and beautiful view. But in order to reach it, you have to climb to the top of the gardens’ promontory, and not everyone enjoys the effort. If you make it, however, you’ll experience unique emotions.
Villa Lysis, at the end of the Pizzolungo promenade, was only recently reopened to tourists, so not everyone knows it. Built by a Parisian nobleman, Jacques Fersen, it was home to artists and poets for two centuries and today hosts exhibitions. To get there, you have to walk uphill for almost an hour… and that’s not for everyone.
Anacapri is the least touristy of the towns. Unlike Capri, it’s located on a hill, far from the hustle and bustle, and still preserves an interesting medieval heritage. Walking the streets of Anacapri, you’ll finally hear the locals speaking their dialect and you shall fully appreciate their warm welcome. Above Anacapri rises Mount Solaro, the highest peak on the island. Imagine the view from up there! Getting to the top requires a chairlift ride and a bit of walking. But the reward is truly priceless!
The Punta Carena lighthouse is the westernmost point of Capri. Famous for its spectacular sunsets, it’s worth admiring even in winter, with the stormy sea playing with the orange light of the sun. One more reason to return to Capri … off-season!
