How to Nail Your First Capri Vacation: Things to Do in Capri, Capri Hotels, and More

The tourist season in Capri runs from Easter through October, with peak months occurring in the summer. June, July, and August see hordes of travelers -- a mix of day-trippers, cruisers, and overnight guests -- due to the warm weather suitable for beach fun and swimming. At this time of year, numerous ferries run to the mainland, kids are out of school, and Capri boat tours from Sorrento ply the waters offshore. This translates to sky-high hotel prices, crowded streets, and packed restaurants.

Low season lasts from roughly November through March, though think carefully about whether its worth a visit during this time of year. Capri isn't the best place to visit in the winter months. On top of strong sea winds and relatively cold temperatures (highs in the mid-50 degrees Fahrenheit), travelers will have to deal with most hotels and restaurants being closed. Ferries to and from the mainland are also limited and often canceled due to weather. If you're set on visiting Capri in the winter, plan on making it a day trip and don't expect to do any water-based activities.

For the above reasons, the best time to visit Capri is during the shoulder seasons, especially May, September, and October. Temperatures are pleasant -- in the high 60s and 70s -- a majority of the hotels are open, and sights and restaurants aren't nearly as crowded.

For starters, you might be wondering, "Where is Capri?" Good question. The Isle of Capri sits west of the Sorrento Peninsula, to the south of Naples and the Gulf of Naples in southern Italy. While being near one of Italy's biggest cities and the popular Amalfi Coast might make you think reaching Capri is simple, there are some things to note. In fact, getting to Capri is not the easiest journey for international travelers, as it requires a plane, train and/or car, and ferry. The closest airport is Naples International Airport, but it's small and has limited, expensive flight options.

A more popular option is to fly into Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, where travelers can hop on an express train to Naples, or spend the night in the city and take a train from Termini Station. A whopping 78 trains run from Rome to Naples daily, a trip that takes between one and two-and-a-half hours, and typically costs under 50 euros. From Naples, daily ferries to Capri are available starting around 5:30 a.m. and ending between 8 and 9 p.m., depending on the month. For day trips, return ferries also vary by time of year, and are available until either 8 or 10 p.m.

Most travelers visiting Capri are likely exploring other parts of Italy, for instance Rome, Sorrento, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast, allowing them to add Capri when it's most convenient. The quickest ferry to Capri leaves from Sorrento and takes just 20 minutes. Most one-way ferry rides cost about 20 euros. It's recommended that travelers buy their ferry tickets in advance if they know which day they'll be traveling and it's within peak tourist months. Otherwise, securing a same-day ticket isn't usually a problem. Note that ferries to Capri from Positano and Amalfi only run between mid-April and mid-October.




Where to Stay in Capri

Day-trippers to Capri will find themselves having to sacrifice certain sights, as there's a ton to do on the island. Capri's most famous feature is the Blue Grotto, a stunning natural cavern with water that shines an ethereal blue color from the sun. It can be accessed by boat during certain times of year (not in the winter), and most travelers make it a stop on a boat tour around the island. A boat tour of Capri is a must if weather conditions allow, as it's an easy, fun, and often private way to see the island's striking cliffs and oceanfront sights -- including the famous Faraglioni, three towering rock formations that jut out from the Mediterranean Sea, and the Punta Carena Lighthouse. Capri boat tours from Sorrento are especially popular.

A visit to the top of Monte Solaro rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the island and sea at nearly 2,000 feet above sea level. Adventurous and fit travelers can hike up, though a funicular to the top of Monte Solaro is available for a less strenuous option. The chair lift is located in Anacapri's Piazza Vittoria, and the 11-euro journey takes about 12 minutes. Another must-stop in Capri is Gardens of Augustus, a large botanical garden with sensational views of the Faraglioni and Via Krupp, a historic switchback footpath. You should also check out Villa San Michele. Built in the 19th century by Swedish physician and author Axel Munthe, it includes a museum with countless striking objects, lovely gardens, and magical sea views.

Of course, no trip to Capri would be complete without a walk through Piazza Umberto I (the Piazzetta), a historic square that's home to a clock tower, restaurants and bars with outdoor seating (and people-watching), and tasty gelato that's perfect for a hot day. Narrow streets and alleyways connect to numerous luxury designer shops -- think Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Valentino -- as well as places to buy perfume and leather sandals. The dining scene is similarly impressive, with numerous indoor and outdoor eateries offering fresh seafood, local cuisine, Naples-style pizza, limoncello, and torta caprese, a flourless chocolate and almond cake. Don't pass on the tomatoes and olive oil produced on the island. They're best sampled in the form of the namesake caprese salad.

It's hard to beat J.K. Place Capri

Capri calls for a cute and flowy dress no matter the occasion. Bring a little something from Reformation, we're loving the Malone Dress


You'll Also Like:

• 8 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid in the Amalfi Coast
• The 11 Best Beach Towns in Italy
• Sicily or Sardinia: Which Is a Better Vacation Spot for You?