There’s still time to grab some last-minute tickets, check out Airbnb or another booking website for deals, bring your camera, and enjoy the European summer while it lasts. Capri, a small island in the bay of Naples, is the perfect destination for this. Its picturesque landscape and rich history dating back to the Roman Empire make it unique in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Since Augustus, the island has been a popular holiday location for emperors, including Tiberius, one of the greatest Roman generals and emperors, who ruled from the Villa Jovis for a while.

View from the Monte Solaro, the highest point of Capri.
Boats are sailing around the Faraglioni on the Island of Capri.

The easiest way to reach Capri from Naples is by taking the High-Speed Ferry from Molo Beverello. If you’re coming from the Amalfi coast, you can board the ferry from Positano or Sorrento. Alternatively, there is another port about 500 m in the opposite direction where you can take a slower ferry or go to Ischia as well. Once you arrive at Capri, simply walk out from the Molo and you’ll find your transportation options. Taxis are located on the left-hand side, while the local bus is on the right.

Capri or Anacapri

View from Anacapri, Capri Island, Italy.
View from Anacapri, Capri Island, Italy.

The island of Capri consists of two parts: Capri and Anacapri. If you want to avoid crowds, I recommend visiting Anacapri. There are some incredible B&Bs available, such as B&B Angelide, where Mario and his family provide outstanding hospitality. From Anacapri, buses run every 10-15 minutes to Capri Marina Grande, Grotta Azzuro, and Faro. The bus journey can be a bit crowded, but if you’re adventurous enough to position yourself by the windows, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views along the serpentine road.

Villa San Michele

If you find yourself with limited time to explore the sights on the island, I highly recommend prioritizing a visit to Villa San Michele. This stunning villa is a must-see attraction that offers a unique and enriching experience. 

To reach Villa San Michele, you have a couple of options. If you’re in Anacapri, it’s quite easy to access the villa from there. Alternatively, if you’re up for a bit of exercise and want to enjoy some scenic views along the way, you can choose to take the stairs from Capri town. Whichever route you decide to take, rest assured that the journey itself will be an enjoyable part of your experience.

Once you arrive at Villa San Michele, you’ll be greeted by its captivating beauty. The villa itself is a masterpiece of architecture, showcasing exquisite design and craftsmanship. As you explore the various rooms and corridors, you’ll be transported back in time, gaining insight into the rich history and culture of the island.

One of the highlights of Villa San Michele is its enchanting garden. This meticulously maintained outdoor space is a true oasis of tranquility, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take your time to stroll through the garden, marveling at the vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and charming statues that adorn the pathways. It’s a perfect place to relax, unwind, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into the history and significance of Villa San Michele, I highly recommend reading “Axel Munthe: The Story of San Michele.” This book provides valuable insights into the life of Axel Munthe, the Swedish physician and writer who built the villa. Through his personal anecdotes and experiences, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the villa and its cultural significance.

“My home shall be open for the sun and the wind and the voices of the sea – like a Greek temple – and light, light, light everywhere!”

Axel Munthe described Villa San Michele, his beloved home on the island of Capri.

Monte Solaro

Chairlift ride to the Monte Solaro
Chairlift ride to the Monte Solaro

Another incredible destination on the island is Monte Solaro. This stunning peak offers breathtaking views of the bay. If you wake up early, you’ll be treated to the mesmerizing sight of mist rising from the sea and creating clouds above the mountain. To reach the summit, simply take the chairlift from Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri. The 12-minute ride is filled with awe-inspiring moments and will transport you 589 meters above sea level.

Boat trip around the Island

Enjoying the private boat experience on Capri Island
Private boat experience on Capri Island

I believe this is something special for Capri Island, or at least I haven’t come across these kinds of activities yet. If you know of something similar elsewhere, please let me know 🙂 In Marina Grande, you can rent a small boat for yourself. It has a 25 hp engine and is perfect for two people. The best part is that you can drive it yourself! All you need is a valid driver’s license. It’s an amazing experience that I highly recommend renting for a day. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the island, stop for lunch, or go snorkeling. And if you just want to relax in one of the bays, simply drop your anchor and enjoy the European summer.

Finding the way to the Marina Piccola beach, Capri Island, Italy.
Finding the way to the Marina Piccola beach, Capri Island, Italy.

With Gigi, you can discover the most exquisite beaches on Capri Island, Sorrento, and Ischia. In our next post, we will provide you with detailed tips to make the most of your beach experience in these stunning locations. Stay tuned for more information!