Capri Top Spots: Must-Visit Attractions and Hidden Gems

Capri, a jewel of the Mediterranean, offers a wealth of breathtaking sights and experiences that will captivate any visitor. From natural wonders to historical landmarks and culinary delights, this island has something for everyone. Below are some must-see places and activities, along with practical information on how to get there, entry fees, and more.

1. Explore the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)

Imagine floating on a small wooden rowboat, entering a narrow cave on Capri’s northwest coast. Suddenly, you're enveloped in an ethereal blue glow as sunlight filters through the water, illuminating the cave in an otherworldly light. This is the Blue Grotto, one of Capri's most famous attractions. Reaching this mesmerizing spot is easy—take a boat from Marina Grande or a bus from Anacapri, followed by a short walk. An entrance fee of approximately €14 covers the rowboat ride into the cave. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the magic of Capri

• Location: The Blue Grotto is located on the northwest coast of Capri. You can reach it by boat from Marina Grande or by bus from Anacapri, followed by a short walk down to the entrance. Boat tours to the grotto are widely available from the main harbor.
• Entry Fee: Yes, there is an entrance fee of approximately €14, which includes the rowboat ride into the cave. Keep in mind that boat tours may charge an additional fee.

2. Take the Chairlift to Monte Solaro

At 589 meters above sea level, Monte Solaro offers panoramic views that will take your breath away. Take a chairlift from Anacapri’s Piazza Vittoria, or hike up if you prefer, and find yourself gazing over the entire island, the Bay of Naples, and even the distant Amalfi Coast. The ride costs about €12 round-trip, and it’s worth every cent. Monte Solaro is the highest point on Capri, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the island's most stunning vistas.

• Location: Monte Solaro is the highest point on Capri, located in Anacapri. You can reach the summit by taking the chairlift from Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri, which takes about 12 minutes. Alternatively, you can hike to the top, which takes around 1.5 hours.
• Entry Fee: The chairlift costs approximately €12 round-trip or €9 one-way.

3. Stroll Through the Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto)

These gardens are a tranquil oasis in the heart of Capri Town, offering spectacular views of the famous Faraglioni rock formations and the winding Via Krupp. Located just a short walk from the Piazzetta, the Gardens of Augustus are a perfect spot to relax and soak in the island's natural beauty. The entry fee is a mere €1, making this one of the best-value attractions on Capri. With its vibrant flowers and stunning scenery, it’s a place you’ll want to linger.

• Location: The Gardens of Augustus are located near the center of Capri Town, it’s a 10-minute walk following signs for Via Krupp and Giardini di Augusto.
• Entry Fee: There is a small entry fee of approximately €1.

4. Visit Villa Jovis

Step back in time at Villa Jovis, the ancient Roman villa perched high on a cliff at the eastern tip of Capri. Once the residence of Emperor Tiberius, this historic site offers a glimpse into the island’s rich past. The villa is located about 2 km from Capri Town, a walk that takes around 45 minutes. The entry fee is approximately €6. As you explore the ruins, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Villa Jovis is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

• Location: Villa Jovis is situated on the eastern end of Capri, approximately 2 km from Capri Town, it can be reached on foot from Capri Town, with a walk of about 45 minutes. Follow the signs from Piazzetta to Villa Jovis.
• Entry Fee: Yes, the entry fee is around €6.

5. Walk the Path of the Forts

For a taste of Capri’s wild, untamed beauty, hike the Path of the Forts on the island’s western coast. This scenic trail starts at Punta Carena Lighthouse and winds through rugged landscapes to the Blue Grotto. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient forts and breathtaking coastal views. The hike is free and takes about 3 hours to complete. It’s a rewarding experience for those who love nature and want to discover a lesser-known side of Capri.

• Location: The Path of the Forts is on the western coast of Capri, starting from Punta Carena Lighthouse, which can be reached by bus from Anacapri. The hike along the trail takes about 3 hours.
• Entry Fee: The path is free to hike, with no entry fees required.

6. Explore Anacapri

Anacapri offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative to Capri Town. Located on the western side of the island, this charming town is easily reached by bus or a 20-minute walk. Anacapri is home to several attractions, including the Church of San Michele, with its stunning majolica floor, and the chairlift to Monte Solaro. Exploring Anacapri is free, though some attractions like Villa San Michele have entry fees. This town is perfect for those looking to experience Capri’s authentic charm away from the crowds.

• Location: Anacapri is located on the western side of the island, at a higher elevation than Capri Town.You can reach Anacapri by bus or taxi from Capri Town. It’s about a 10-minute bus ride or a scenic 20-minute walk if you’re up for a bit of a climb.
• Entry Fee: Exploring Anacapri is free, though specific attractions like Villa San Michele may have entry fees.

7. Relax at Marina Piccola

For a tranquil beach experience, head to Marina Piccola on the southern coast of Capri. This idyllic bay, sheltered by towering cliffs, offers stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks. You can reach Marina Piccola by bus from Capri Town or by walking down the scenic Via Krupp. The beach is free, but if you want to rent a sunbed or umbrella, expect to pay a fee. Marina Piccola is the perfect spot for a relaxing swim or a leisurely lunch by the sea.

• Location: Marina Piccola is located on the southern coast of Capri, directly across from the Faraglioni rocks. You can reach Marina Piccola by bus from Capri Town or by foot via the Via Krupp, a winding path that leads down to the bay.
• Entry Fee: Access to the beach is free, though renting a sunbed and umbrella from beach clubs may incur a fee.

8. Discover the Faraglioni

The Faraglioni rock formations are one of Capri’s most iconic sights. These towering pillars of rock rise majestically from the sea off the island's southeast coast. The best way to see them is by taking a boat tour from Marina Grande or Capri Town, though they can also be viewed from the Gardens of Augustus or the Pizzolungo trail. There’s no fee to view the Faraglioni from land, but boat tours vary in cost. These natural wonders are a must-see for any visitor to Capri.

• Location: The Faraglioni rock formations are located just off the southeast coast of Capri. The best way to see the Faraglioni is by boat. You can book a boat tour from Marina Grande or Capri Town. They can also be viewed from the Gardens of Augustus or by hiking the Pizzolungo trail.
• Entry Fee: There is no fee to view the Faraglioni from land. Boat tours have varying costs depending on the duration and type of boat.

9. Visit Villa San Michele

Villa San Michele, located in Anacapri, is a beautiful historic home built by Swedish physician Axel Munthe. The villa, perched on the cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Naples, is a masterpiece of art and architecture. You can reach it by taking a bus from Capri Town to Anacapri, followed by a short walk. The entry fee is approximately €10. The villa’s gardens, filled with fragrant flowers and ancient statues, offer one of the most breathtaking views on the island.

• Location: Villa San Michele is located in Anacapri, near the top of the Phoenician Steps. From Anacapri’s Piazza Vittoria, it’s a short walk to the villa. You can also take the bus from Capri Town to Anacapri.
• Entry Fee: Yes, the entry fee is approximately €10

10. Enjoy Local Cuisine

No visit to Capri is complete without indulging in the island’s delicious cuisine. Picture yourself enjoying a Caprese salad with the freshest tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, followed by a plate of spaghetti alle vongole. Capri’s restaurants are spread across Capri Town, Anacapri, and the coastline, with many offering breathtaking views of the sea. While there’s no fee to enjoy the cuisine, be prepared to spend on your meals, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Make sure to try the island’s famous Limoncello as well!

• Location: Restaurants and cafes are spread throughout Capri Town, Anacapri, and along the coastline, easily accessible on foot. Some beachside eateries can be reached by boat or along coastal trails.
• Entry Fee: There is no fee to enjoy the cuisine, but expect to pay for your meals, which can range from budget-friendly to high-end.

11. Shop in Capri Town

Capri Town is a shopper’s paradise, with boutiques offering everything from luxury fashion to handmade sandals. The narrow streets around the Piazzetta are lined with stores selling high-end brands, artisanal perfumes, and fine jewelry. Accessible by funicular from Marina Grande, Capri Town is the perfect place to find a special souvenir or simply enjoy the ambiance. There’s no fee to browse, but shopping in Capri can be a delightful indulgence.

• Location: Shopping in Capri is concentrated in the narrow streets around the Piazzetta in Capri Town. It is easily accessible from Marina Grande by funicular, bus, or taxi.
• Entry Fee: There’s no fee to wander through the shops, though you’ll find a range of prices for goods from luxury brands to local crafts.

12. Sunset at Punta Carena Lighthouse

End your day on Capri with a visit to Punta Carena Lighthouse, located on the island’s southwestern tip. This picturesque lighthouse, painted in red and white stripes, is a favorite spot for watching the sunset. Reach it by bus from Anacapri, or hike from the town if you’re feeling adventurous. There’s no entry fee, and the views of the Mediterranean at dusk are simply spectacular.

• Location: Punta Carena Lighthouse is located on the southwestern tip of Capri. Take the bus from Anacapri to the lighthouse, a journey that takes about 15 minutes. You can also reach it by taxi or by hiking from Anacapri.
• Entry Fee: There is no fee to visit the lighthouse or the surrounding area.