Capri City Guide

Located in the Bay of Naples, just off the Sorrentine Peninsula, Capri is a breathtaking isle of weathered limestone, shaped over millennia by the waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Part of the Campania region of Italy and measuring only four-square miles in size, Capri has been known for the greater portion of its history as a resort destination, even dating back into antiquity. The island is dotted with numerous beautiful beaches that are favored by travelers and locals alike throughout the summer, as well as hiking trails that lead up Monte Solaro and offer stunning views of the weathered cliffs and crags of the iconic Faraglioni.

Capri is an island of duality. Known for its sensibilities both antiquated and modern, as well as its attractions both natural and trendy. Whether you favor hikes and boating trips around breathtaking natural formations or nightclub dancing and modern art, Capri has something for everyone to enjoy.

The most famous attraction to be found on Capri is the legendary Grotta Azzurra or Blue Grotto. A local favorite for centuries, this breathtaking natural formation is renowned for its crystal-clear waters that seem to glow blue in the refracted light of the sun. Travelers and locals alike flock to admire this natural phenomenon. The Blue Grotto is far from all that Capri has to offer for those who love nature, however. Other great activities include taking a boating tour around the island and viewing the Faraglioni: natural rock formations of rugged limestone, beaten and shaped by the ocean waves, wind and time. For those who like to keep their feet on dry land, there’s no shortage of breathtaking beaches to relax on.

Capri has been a resort island since the days of the Roman Empire. Tiberius, the Emperor of Rome from the years 14 A.D. to 37 A.D., particularly favored the isle of Capri for its natural beauty and ruled the Roman Empire from his Capri villas for ten years until his death. Since then, Capri has been lauded as a premiere travel destination by artists, intellectuals, and many of the rich and famous over the past several centuries. Acclaimed author Charles Dickens himself was once quoted as saying, “There is no spot in the world with such delightful possibilities of repose as this little isle.”

GEOGRAPHY & CLIMATE  

Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Capri enjoys a temperate, Mediterranean climate. Spring is often considered to be one of the most beautiful times of the year on Capri, with mild weather and the island flowers in fragrant bloom. Despite this, the height of tourist season occurs in the summer, when the weather gets hot and sunny during the day and balmy at night. In autumn, the weather is still pleasantly warm enough to explore the island, but the crowds will have thinned out allowing for a more serene experience. Winter is the off season when the majority of establishments are closed and the weather becomes chilly.

The geography of Capri is mountainous and rocky, with sheer cliffs and striking natural rock formations. At the base of Monte Solaro rests the town of the same name, Capri, where much of the hustle and bustle of the island takes place. Here is where one will find the beaches, the lively Piazza Umberto I (known as La Piazzetta), and the island’s two ports; the Marina Grande and the Marina Piccola. Separate from the city of Capri and located higher up on the mountain face lies the town of Anacapri, where much of the island’s more quiet, historical landmarks lie.

Despite the rocky, limestone nature of the island, Capri is well known for its lush forest trails and famous botanical gardens perched above its beaches and cliffs.

WHEN IN CAPRI

What one does in Capri depends largely upon the nature of their visit. For those who are simply visiting Capri for a day trip, it’s generally recommended that one explore the hiking trails, visit the beach, or take a boat tour of the Blue Grotto, which is absolutely a must, being perhaps the most famous attraction in Capri.

For those planning a more extended stay in Capri, there are plenty of must-see attractions. One should not miss a boating trip around the Faraglioni. For those who enjoy nature hikes, there is the incomparable Pizzolungo foot trail, where visitors can hike around the south end of the island and view Capri’s breathtaking natural formations, including the Arco Naturale, a paleolithic, natural, arching rock formation about 40 feet wide and 65 feet high. The Gardens of Augustus are a great place for more outdoor activities and photo ops. The botanical garden offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the island and a peaceful place for one to rest and enjoy nature.

Another option to enjoy the nature of Capri is to take the panoramic chairlift up to Monte Solaro. Once at the top, it is possible to admire what many consider to be the best views of the whole island, featuring the blue water of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the rocky cliffs below.

For those more interested in history, there is no shortage of sites to see. Capri offers tours of the ancient Villa Jovis, also known as the Villa of Jupiter. It was from here that Emperor Tiberius ruled the Roman Empire until his death in 37 A.D. One can also take in the other historic villas, such as nineteenth century Villa San Michele and twentieth century Villa Lysis.

For those more interested in religious history, feel free to pop into the historical churches and religious complexes found on the island, such as the Baroque Church of San Michele, which features beautiful mosaics depicting the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, or the Certosa di San Giacomo, a former Carthusian monastery constructed in the Renaissance style. The Church of Santo Stefano, one of Capri’s oldest churches, served as the cathedral of Capri until the island joined the Archdiocese of Sorrento-Castellammare di Stabia.

Finally, for those looking to relax and enjoy the resort life, there’s no shortage of beach clubs where one can reserve a small space overlooking the sea and simply let all troubles ebb away. Piazza Umberto I also offers dozens of cafés and restaurants where you can sip a cappuccino and people watch as the bustle of Capri passes you by. There are also plenty of shops offering local artisan goods such as handmade sandals and limoncello. And for those willing to stay up a little late, Capri offers many trendy nightclubs where you can dance the night away.

From remarkable coastal views with rugged cliffs and lush gardens to historic villas built by a Roman Emperor, Capri is an island resort full of charm. This sparkling gem located off of Italy’s southwestern coast is a true paradise just waiting to be discovered.

Travel Guides

The Campania Region of Italy

The Cities of Campania, Italy