A day in Capri: the perfect itinerary to discover the azure isle in just a few hours

The island of Capri, jewel of the Mediterranean, is a must-see destination for those staying on the Sorrento Peninsula. With its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking views and glamorous atmosphere, it makes for a perfect day trip from our La Terrazza Family Holidays home. But how best to organize a visit when you only have a few hours to spare? Here is our ideal itinerary to make the most of a day in Capri!

How to get to Capri

The most practical way to reach Capri from Sant’Agnello is to take a ferry or hydrofoil from the port of Sorrento. Connections are frequent, especially during the summer season, with departures almost every hour from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. The trip takes about 20-30 minutes. We recommend that you purchase tickets in advance, especially in July and August, when the influx of tourists is greatest.

Pro tip: Leave early in the morning (the first hydrofoil generally leaves at 7:15/7:30) to avoid crowds and have more time on the island.

Morning: Marina Grande and Anacapri

8:30 a.m. – Arrival at Marina Grande

Once you disembark at the port of Marina Grande, you have two options: take the funicular to central Capri (the ride takes only 4 minutes) or a bus to Anacapri. To optimize your time, we recommend heading straight for Anacapri, the highest part of the island, and then gradually descending over the course of the day.

9:00 a.m. – Anacapri and Monte Solaro

Take a bus from Marina Grande to Anacapri (about 15 minutes). Once there, head for the chairlift to Monte Solaro. This short but spectacular ascent will take you to the highest point on the island (589 meters), from which you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples, the Amalfi Coast and the entire island of Capri.

The ascent by chairlift takes about 12 minutes and is an unforgettable experience, suspended between sky and sea. Alternatively, for the more energetic, there is a path that allows you to reach the top on foot in about 40 minutes.

10:30 a.m. – Villa San Michele

Descending from Monte Solaro, visit the splendid Villa San Michele, built by Swedish physician and writer Axel Munthe in the early 1900s. The villa offers a magnificent garden and a collection of Roman artifacts, as well as wonderful views of the gulf. The visit takes about an hour.

Lunch: a gastronomic break
12:00 noon – Lunch in Anacapri

For lunch, try one of the typical trattorias in downtown Anacapri. Opt for a plate of ravioli capresi (filled with caciotta and marjoram), a fresh Caprese salad or a plate of local fish. If you prefer something quick, rotisseries offer great take-out alternatives such as the panino caprese or pizza al taglio, perfect for a lunch on the fly.

For the little guests: Most restaurants in Anacapri offer children’s menus. Alternatively, homemade ice cream is always a great option!

Afternoon: the center of Capri and the Gardens of Augustus

1:30 p.m. – From Anacapri to Capri center

Take a bus to get off at Capri center (about 15 minutes). Once there, you will find yourself in the famous Piazzetta, the heart of the island’s social life and a meeting place for celebrities and tourists.

2:00 p.m. – Walk through Via Camerelle and Via Tragara

From the Piazzetta, take Via Camerelle, famous for its luxury boutiques and local craft stores. Then continue along Via Tragara, a scenic route that will take you to the Belvedere di Tragara, from which you can admire the famous Faraglioni, the symbol of Capri.

3:00 p.m. – Gardens of Augustus and Krupp Street

A short walk from the Belvedere, you will find the Gardens of Augustus, a complex of flowering terraces that offer spectacular views of the Faraglioni and Marina Piccola. From here you can also admire the famous Via Krupp, a winding path carved into the rock that winds down to the sea (check that it is open, as it is sometimes closed due to landslide hazards).

4:00 p.m. – Optional: the Blue Grotto

If you still have time, you can consider an excursion to the famous Blue Grotto. Keep in mind that it requires about two hours between transfer and visit. Alternatively, a boat tour around the island (duration 1 hour) will allow you to see the many sea caves and admire the island from the sea.

End of the day: shopping and aperitif

5:00 p.m. – Shopping and souvenirs

Before leaving the island, give yourself some time for shopping. Capri is famous for its handcrafted products: handmade Capri sandals, local perfumes such as “Carthusia,” and limoncello made from the island’s lemons.

6:00 p.m. – Aperitif in the Piazzetta

End your day with an aperitif in the famous Piazzetta, perhaps enjoying a “Spritz Caprese” or a glass of local wine while watching the bustle of people.

7:00 p.m. – Return to Sorrento

Take the funicular back to Marina Grande and board the last ferry to Sorrento (generally the last one leaves around 7:30 to 8:00 p.m., but always check updated schedules).