One of Italy’s most stunning islands, Capri, is perfect for a quick day trip or a few night’s stay. We came up with 25 ideas of what to do on the island of Capri, Italy.
What to Do on the Island of Capri Italy?
1. Marina Grande
It’s hard to miss Marina Grande, as it’s the main port for the whole island; it’s the first thing you’ll see once you arrive in Capri. Most people overlook this part of the island when visiting, so don’t forget to leave a little time at the end of your visit to explore this beautiful area. We suggest having a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants while waiting for your ferry.
2. Ride the Funicular (Funicolare)
One of the main attractions in Capri is the Funicular (Funicolare in Italian), which was built in 1907. While there are other ways to get to the top of Capri and Piazza Umberto, something is charming about taking this old means of transportation. The funicular goes straight up the side of the mountain with people’s houses right beside you, offering some incredible views that should not be missed.
3. Piazza Umberto I
This is one of Capri’s most famous squares and tourist attractions as it is the town’s city center. Piazza Umberto has plenty of little shops and cafés to enjoy, ample people-watching opportunities, and picturesque views. And FYI – the Islanders call it a ‘chiazz or piazza, but on the map, it is called Piazza Umberto I, and for the rest of the world, it’s the Piazzetta.
4. Clock Tower
It’s almost a requirement for everyone who goes to Capri to get a photo in front of the Clock Tower. Directly in Piazza Umberto, it’s hard to miss. The Clock Tower and Piazza Umberto serve as an excellent meeting point as well!
5. Enjoy Fresh Lemonade Slush
At the top of the Funicular in Piazza Umberto, there’s a cute stand that sells lemonade slush. Using fresh lemons from Capri, it is the perfect refreshment to cool you down and give you that extra boost to keep exploring!
6. Church of St. Stephan
This church is Capri’s primary place of worship. Its unique white façade and baroque architecture make it easily recognizable in Piazza Umberto.
7. Via Krupp
There are many roads in Capri, but Via Krupp offers a panoramic pathway built to connect the Gardens of Agustus with Marina Piccola. The path was named after German Industrialist Friedrich Alfred Krupp, who bought the land to build his home, but unfortunately never started. Unfortunately, the pathway, which includes the switchbacks, was recently closed due to the potential of falling rocks. Luckily, you can still see the road from the Gardens of Augustus.
8. Gardens of Agustus
These botanical gardens look like a scene out of a movie – they are beautiful! There are pine trees and palm trees providing lots of shade, with beautiful and vibrant Mediterranean flowers everywhere you look. The views from this garden are also memorable, looking out to Marina Piccola Bay, Via Krupp, and the Faraglioni.
9. Faraglioni
When you Google Capri, you’ll most likely see photos of the famous Faraglioni rock formation. These are walls of rock that have eroded and separated from the main part of the island and create the grottos and natural arches. The most famous are the three that are on the Island’s Southern Coast. The best way to view the Faraglioni is by boat, but there are still great views from land.
10. Marina Piccola
One of Capri’s most popular spots and the baby brother to Marina Grande, Marina Piccola, offers impressive views of the Faraglioni. Make sure to arrive early as locals like to frequent here as well. If you’re also looking for beaches, this is the place to go. Marina Piccola offers two beaches that provide shelter from the wind and are always warm. With the closure of Via Krupp, the easiest way to travel to the marina is by bus, where you will be dropped off only a few feet away from the beaches and viewpoints.
11. Anacapri
Anacapri is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Capri. Located at the highest point on the island, Anacapri overlooks all of the island and the Mediterranean Sea. The views from the top are some of the best in the world! The easiest way to get to Anacapri is by taxi or taking a bus from Piazza Umberto.
12. Ride the Chairlift
We won’t lie – the chairlift is slightly terrifying but 100% worth it! Located in Anacapri, this is a single-seat cablecar and the easiest way to get to the top of Mount Solaro. It only takes about 13 minutes, and you will slowly creep up the mountain going over the top of people’s houses and vegetable gardens. The highest portion will take you 40-50 feet off the ground, but on average, you’ll only be about 15 feet off the ground. The hours vary, but during peak season (May-October), it is open from 9:30 am until 5:00 pm. Here’s their full schedule.
Tip: Buy a roundtrip ticket at the bottom, as they don’t always sell tickets for the trip down at the top. Plus, a roundtrip ticket is €14, and one way is €11.
13. Mount Solaro (Monte Solaro)
Mount Solaro (or Monte Solaro) is the highest point on the entire island of Capri at 1,932 feet (589 meters). You can access Mount Solaro on foot, but we recommend the chairlift! Here you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views in every direction. Once you arrive at the top, you can relax in the chairs, enjoy the sun, and have a drink. Give yourself at least an hour or two (I think we were three hours), and don’t forget to take lots of pictures – there are plenty of great spots to get creative!
Tip: Bring a sweater, as it does get significantly colder at the top.
Read More
Chairlift Capri Island | What You Need to Know
72 Hours on the Amalfi Coast: The Ultimate Guide
Positano to Capri Ferry | Getting Around Easily
14. Phoenician Steps (Scala Fenicia)
Let’s start by saying this is a hike! The beginning of these 921 steps begins in the Marina Grande, and it will take you approximately 45-60 minutes to climb to the top. The Phoenician Steps (or Scala Fenicia) were initially created to link Anacapri with the rest of the island and the outside world. Although the steps are carved directly in the rocks, you have nothing to worry about as they were restored in 1998 to better accommodate the tourists climbing them.
15. Villa San Michele
This villa has stunning views of Capri and Mount Vesuvius. Many consider Villa San Michele a paradise on Earth, built on the side of the cliffs of Anacapri. This villa was a custom-built dream home, with the sole focus of showcasing the beauty of the surrounding area. As you can imagine, the photo opportunities are endless!
16. Castello Barbarossa
Located in Anacapri, only the ruins of this castle remain. It is uncertain when it was built, but it is estimated to have been during Roman rule as the materials used date to the Roman times. In 1535, the castle got its name when a Turkish Pirate nicknamed Barbarossa invaded the Island of Capri.
17. Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
Enter into the grotto and view the stunning cobalt-blue water. You’ll instantly understand why this is one of the top tourist attractions in Capri. If time permits, take one of the tourist boats to visit this grotto.
Tip: If you go in the morning, you’ll see the light reflecting on the water.
18. Take a Taxi
While you don’t have to take a taxi, you at least need to get a photo beside one. Most of these vintage cars have had their roofs cut off to make them convertibles. They have also been extended two feet to accommodate up to seven passengers, which is what really makes them unique.
19. Villa Jovis
Created and commissioned by Emperor Tiberius, Villa Jovis dates back to the Imperial Age (27 AD). This 5,500-square-foot villa is the largest of its kind. It’s built on the very secluded edge of a cliff, not for the panoramic views, but because the emperor always thought that he was to be assassinated. Now only ruins, this villa is a testament to how advanced the Roman Empire was in architecture and engineering.Â
20. Lighthouse of Punta Carena
Construction of this lighthouse began in 1862 by the British and became functional in 1867. To date, this is the second-largest lighthouse in all of Italy and is still used on a nightly basis. Beyond the lighthouse, this location offers one of the most beautiful spots to watch the sunset in all of Capri.
21. Natural Arch (Arco Naturale)
The Natural Arch is the remains of a collapsed grotto that eroded from the sea. There is a small pathway that leads down to the main vantage point of this picturesque arch. With the help of the arch, you’re able to create a picture frame that is perfect for capturing the stunning blue waters.
22. Go Shopping at Capri Watch
Established in 1995, Capri Watch has made its name by creating beautiful and vibrant timepieces that depict some of the most famous locations in Capri. Don’t worry if you miss out; you can always buy the watch online and say you got it there!
23. Indulge in Some Fresh Seafood
At the end of your day, while you’re waiting for your ferry at Marina Grande, you must try the fresh seafood restaurants. Caught daily by the local fisherman, this is as close to sea-to-table as you can get!
24. Enjoy a Limoncello Spritz
By the time you’ve arrived in Capri, you have likely tried an Aperol Spritz in Italy. Well, this is its delicious cousin. Using fresh limoncello from Capri, they have created a delicious, refreshing, and strong drink that is perfect for any time of the day. A must-try! We enjoyed a few too many at Caffe Augusto in Marina Grande while waiting for our ferry back to Positano.
25. Boat Tour
If time permits, we recommend taking a boat tour of the island. You’ll be able to see the Natural Arch, Blue Grotto, and many hidden coves up close. Depending on what tour you choose, you may also be able to go swimming in the clear blue waters.
Places to Stay on the Island of Capri Italy
- Hotel Caesar Augustus (Anacapri)
- Hotel La Tosca
- JK Place Capri
- Villa Marina Capri Hotel & Spa
- Hotel Punta Tragara
- Grand Hotel Quisisana
- Capri Wine Hotel
