Capri In a Day: What to Do and See in one day!
November 1, 2026
While ferries make reaching Capri easy, planning your Capri in a day itinerary can feel overwhelming. After all, must-sees like the Blue Grotto, scenic boat tours, shopping streets, local limoncello, and beaches all compete for your time.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your day trip to Capri!
Capri in a day… get an early start!
You cannot see all of Capri’s attractions in just one day. However, you can visit many highlights if you start early and get the last ferry home.
Take the first ferry for Capri, from Rome, Naples, Positano or Amalfi Coast, usually leave at about 8:30 am. Purchase tickets a few days ahead to avoid disappointment, especially in summer. You also need to decide the time you want to head back, before you embark on your trip. The last ferries to Positano and Amalfi usually leave between 5:30 pm and 7 pm. This gives you about 6 hours to explore.
Note: If you travel off-peak (September to May), contact the Capri tourism office. Ferries run less often during these months. For other useful tips, read The Biggest Mistake People Make When Planning a Trip to Italy and How to Avoid it.
Soak in the sun as you stroll through the quiet streets of Anacapri
Transport links on Capri
All ferries dock at Marina Grande. From here, you can take the funicular up to the Piazzetta, the heart of Capri town. Alternatively, take the bus to Anacapri, which feels more tranquil and residential.
- A one-way ticket costs €2.40 and works for both the bus and funicular.
- The UNICO Capri day pass (€8.60) gives you unlimited bus rides and two funicular trips.
- During summer, expect long lines for buses and the funicular, so be patient.
- Consider a boat tour from Marina Grande if you want to see the Blue Grotto or enjoy the coastline.
The funicular connects Marina Grande and Capri Town
What you can do and see on Capri
Head to Anacapri and start your day at Monte Solaro, the island’s highest point. The chair lift costs €11 one-way or €14 round-trip. The ride offers panoramic views of Capri and takes approximately 13 minutes, and the scenery is truly priceless.
Another stunning spot for panoramic views is Villa San Michele. Built by Axel Munthe, this villa boasts dreamy pergolas and lush gardens.  The current standard adult admission is €12, students €8 and under 10s are free. Admission tickets grant access to the villa’s historic interiors, Munthe’s art collection, and the renowned gardens, which are among Italy’s top ten, and offer breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
One of our favorite things to do in Capri: visit the gardens at Villa San Michele!
You will find more to explore in Anacapri’s historic center. Although it is less crowded than Capri town, it offers a laid-back and authentic vibe.
- Stroll through Via G. Orlandi and take a short detour to the piazza.
- Visit the Church of San Michele. Despite its modest exterior, the hand-painted tiled floor inside is extraordinary.
- Climb the spiral stairs to the organ loft for a full view of the ceramic masterpiece.
- Book a boat tour to the Blue Grotto if you have time. Tours leave from Marina Grande, but always check sea conditions first.
Exquisite architecture unites with ornate art to provide a feast for the eyes
Places to eat in Capri
All that walking will make you hungry! For a quick bite, order a panino caprese. This sandwich, filled with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, is perfect for a fast lunch. Alternatively, you can enjoy a sit-down meal at one of Capri’s pizza spots:
- Aumm Aumm (Via Caprile 18, Anacapri) which serves pizza among other dishes and has good reviews, but is closed on Mondays.
-
Verginiello (Via Lo Palazzo 25/A, Capri Town) is well-reviewed and known for good pizza and casual dining.
Torta Caprese is a must try dish while in Capri.
Before you leave, you simply must sample torta caprese, Capri’s famous flourless almond-and-chocolate cake. You will find excellent versions at Pasticceria Ferraro (Via G. Orlandi 233) or mini versions at Da Alberto (Via Roma 9).
Finally, do not forget to try Capri’s signature limoncello. Enjoy it after your meal or buy a bottle as a souvenir.
Seeing more spectacular views in Capri
Now that you have eaten, explore Capri Town itself. Capri Town feels lively and energetic, especially near the piazzetta. Here, you will also find the island’s best shopping.
A visit to the Gardens of Augustus is a must. For just €2.50 you get splendid views of the Faraglioni and the zigzagging Via Krupp, which leads down to Marina Piccola.
As you stroll to the gardens, you will discover delicious treats. For example, try the renowned gelateria Buonocore. Near the Gardens, grab a refreshing citrus granita from a nearby stand. This cold treat is perfect for summer.
If you want to relax, spend time at one of Capri’s beaches. Both Marina Piccola and Marina Grande offer swimming, sunbathing, and gorgeous sea views with the iconic Faraglioni rocks.
FAQ: Capri in a Day
Can I visit the Blue Grotto during a day trip to Capri?
Yes! You can join a boat tour from Marina Grande. However, check the sea conditions and allow extra time in summer, as lines are long.
What is the best way to get around Capri for sightseeing?
Use the funicular and local buses to reach Capri Town and Anacapri. For a unique view, take a boat tour around the island.
Where can I try authentic limoncello on Capri?
Shops around the Piazzetta and Anacapri offer limoncello. Many producers offer tastings, so you can try before you buy.
Are there good beaches for swimming in Capri?
Yes! Both Marina Piccola and Marina Grande have beautiful beaches. These spots are wonderful in warm weather.
Is Capri good for shopping? What should I look for?
Absolutely! Capri is known for leather sandals, designer boutiques, ceramics, and gourmet shops. The Piazzetta area is especially lively for shopping.
A day trip to Capri only scratches the surface. With these tips, you will make the most of your visit and most likely, you will want to return for a longer stay next time!
And, if you the Capri in a day experience gives you the bug for some more island hopping, you might also want to try a Day Trip Coast tour from Rome to the Amalfi Coast!
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18 responses to “Capri In a Day: What to Do and See in one day!”
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Thank you so much for these suggestions. I am spending 2 nights in Capri in September. I will be traveling solo, would you recommend staying in Anacapri or Capri?
Hi Iche,
We’re happy to help! As you might expect, it very much depends on what your interests are. Anacapri is much quieter than Capri, which means it doesn’t have the same crowds as Capri, but doesn’t have the shops or nightlife, either. But the good news is no matter where you stay, it’s easy to get to the other one: they’re just 3km apart, and buses between the two run every 15 minutes.
Let us know if we can help with anything else (and what you decide!).
no chance of tacking on la grotta azzura in here somewhere?!
Hi Fiona,
It might be a bit of a stretch, time-wise. But of course, if it’s a priority you can always fit it in 😉
Let us know if we can help with anything else!
Hi
I will in Salerno in mid-June and planning head to Capri for Blue Grotto. What is the most convenience way? Should I stay one night in Capri ?
Is this a better way that drop by Naples from Capri before returning to Rome?
Hi Kaka, the most convenient way to get from Salerno to Capri would be to take the ferry (Alicost). We suggest then staying a night in Capri and heading to Naples where you can catch a train to Rome. Let us know if you have any other questions!
Hi, I will be in Naples on May 9th. Do you think I need to buy my ferry tickets ahead of time to get the early ferry or do you think they will be plenty to choose from at that time? Do you feel that I need a tour guide or is Capri pretty easy to do on your own?
Tina
Hi Tina,
You can probably get a ferry ticket, but to be safe it’s best to buy it at least the day before. Also, you don’t need a tour guide to get around Capri, be it is nice to do some research ahead of time to know what to see and do – like in this article! We’re sure you’ll have a great trip 🙂
Thank you for these great posts. I’m planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast on the way from Rome to a wedding in Maratea (I guess Sapri would be the closest “big” town to the wedding). After reading your blog, I’m thinking of staying in Salerno during the Amalfi portion of the trip. I was just wondering since the wedding is so far from the big cities if you would recommend renting a car in Salerno and driving to Maratea or taking the train from Salerno to Sapri – if such a train exists… ? Also, are taxis common in very small towns like Maratea or Acquafredda? – John
Hi John,
As far as taxi’s go, we’d say it depends on just how small the town is! Remember, most really small Italian towns are easily walked through and the historic center of many is a limited traffic zone, if not pedestrian only. Probably a car is the easiest route, but you definitely don’t want a car in Salerno. The town is easily navigable on foot, but not with a car! You can search Trenitalia.com (english version) to find out if a train exists from Salerno to Sapri. Hope you have a great trip!
Hi – Thank you for your post! So helpful.
We’re staying in Positano and interested in taking a day trip to Capri to visit the Blue Grotto + La Fontelina Beach (and potentially some of your suggestions!). Is this at all doable? Are there any tour companies you’d suggest?
Hi Lauren,
Absolutely – We recommend our day tour to Capri from Sorrento. Cruise the coast of Sorrento & Capri aboard a modern gozzo boat, stopping at the most picturesque stops along the way like the White Grotto, the Green Grotto and the Sailor Grotto.
Hello,
That was a wonderful post read.
We are planning to visit the Amalfi coast, Capri and Anicapri in the month of July 2018.
We are a little confused as to how to go about it.
Should we stay put at Naples and do day tours or should we stay in capri and do the tour.
Your valuable suggestions will really help.
Thanks in advance
Hi Ayush,
We have just the thing for you! An easy transfer service from Sorrento to Capri or Anicapri with stops to swim and snorkel along the way among some of the most beautiful grottos and coastlines of the area! Hope to see you there!
Hello, we will be in Italy the first part of August and will have 4-5 days for a southern coast tour. Should we stay in Naples and day trip to Capri or spend a night or 2 on Capri before heading to the Amalfi Coast?
thanks
Hi Lacey,
You can get to Capri from Naples or from the Amalfi Coast, which you stay in depends on what you want to see. As for staying the night in Capri, the island is small and you can see more or less all of it in just one day, but few tourists stay the night so you’ll find an entirely different atmosphere on the island if you do decide to stay!
Hello! Great post! I will be in Positano/Capri in early October. I read that the ferries are less frequent in mid-October however to check the website you provided. I only saw the timetable, but not dates. Would I check back closer to October? Or do you know typically if early October is a similar schedule? Thank you!
Hi Claire,
Ferry routes to and from the Amalfi Coast run from April 1st to October 31st, so you should be fine. You’ll probably have to check back closer to October to be able to purchase tickets in advance.