Easily one of the most well-known islands in the Mediterranean and Italy, planning a 2 to 3 days in Capri itinerary is the perfect way to experience a combination of nature, relaxation, and luxury.
Placed in the aquamarine blue waters of the bay of Naples, the lush island of Capri is just a short ferry ride away from Sorrento, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast, making visiting the perfect addition to any trip to southern Italy.
From the famous rock formations of the Blue Grotto and tart limoncello to stunning natural beauty, this is truly an unforgettable island to visit.
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How Many Days in Capri?
Like anywhere else in Italy, it can be difficult to decide how many days to spend in Capri and how long is necessary on the island to experience it to the fullest.
While a day trip to Capri from Sorrento, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast is possible and perfect for a change of scenery and to enjoy the highlights of the island, I don’t think it’s long enough to do the island justice.
With 2 days in Capri, you’ll manage a more holistic stay on one of Italy’s most famous and picturesque islands, exploring the serene nature, eating vibrant food, and taking in the classic Caprese atmosphere.
There are so many things to do in Capri that spending at least 2 days is ideal. This way, you’ll have time to visit the Blue Grotto, take in all the sites in Capri Town and Anacapri, sample some limoncello and may even take a boat tour around the island.
If you have the option of spending more than 2 days on the Isle of Capri, 3 days are perfect to make the most of the island and surrounding area.
You’ll be able to do all that you’d have the time to do in both 1 and 2 days on Capri island, but also explore outside of the island.
Getting To & Around Capri
If you’re already in Italy, your first step to reaching dazzling Capri is to make your way to Naples and then continue onward by ferry to Capri.
Naples is easily reached by air or high-speed rail from most major cities in the country, making Capri a convenient destination to reach as a complement to any mainland Italy itinerary. You can view train schedules here.
In Naples, there are two ports offering ferry services to Capri, and the port you’ll depart from depends on the type of ferry. For slow and regular ferries, Calata di Massa is the designated port, while Molo Beverello is where you’ll find high-speed ferries.
The time difference between the two options is approximately 20 minutes, with high-speed ferries taking around 50 minutes and slow ferries requiring a little over an hour to reach Capri.
Ticket prices vary based on the ferry and your departure point. The frequency of Naples to Capri ferries ranges from every half hour to every hour, depending on the specific ferry you choose. You can view ferry schedules here.
If you plan to visit from Sorrento, you’ll find the quickest ferry journey time to Capri. The journey from Sorrento to Capri lasts approximately 20-30 minutes, and ferries depart frequently, around every 15 minutes.
It’s worth noting that ticket prices for the Sorrento to Capri route tend to be slightly higher compared to those from Naples, depending on the chosen ferry.
Ferries from Sorrento to Capri depart from the conveniently located Marina Piccola port, which is near the town center of Sorrento, providing easy access to the island.
If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast and plan to head to Capri from Amalfi, you can take a ferry from either Positano or the town of Amalfi to Capri in around 30-60 minutes with ticket costs varying depending on the specific ferry that you travel with.
As for getting around Capri, there are three main modes of transportation on the island; funicular, bus, and foot. With a size of just 10.4 km², the island is about the same size as a town on the Amalfi Coast, making it easy to get around without a car.
Beyond the size of the island, from mid-March to the beginning of November, non-resident vehicles are not allowed on the island. This means that if you’re visiting in the summer months, you cannot bring a hire car to Capri.
One of the most common modes of transport on the island is the funicular railway line. The funicular connects the Marina Grande on the coast with the Piazza Umberto I in the center of the island, offering a convenient way to reach the town of Capri from the port.
While not just convenient, the steep funicular provides atmospheric and stunning views of the island with views of the sparkling Tyrrhenian sea, picturesque cliffs, and charming island vistas.
Another transport option is to take advantage of the island’s reliable bus network that connects the main towns and attractions. Purchase tickets at the bus terminals, remember to validate them when boarding and enjoy the scenic routes as you travel across the island.
Keep in mind that buses on Capri are small and can become crowded during peak tourist seasons, so plan your trips accordingly.
Finally, the most idyllic mode of transportation (as long as it’s not blistering hot!) – your own two feet. While reaching various points of the island by funicular or by bus makes for more convenient transport, anywhere on the island is easily reached by foot, with the time between the furthest two points of the island taking just under 2 hours to walk.
Pretty much any walk or route on Capri allows the opportunity for a scenic path, so try to get around the island by foot as much as you’re able to.
2 to 3 Days in Capri Itinerary
Day 1 – Marin Piccola, the Blue Grotto & Gardens of Augustus
Marina Piccola
The ideal spot to begin is at the island’s most picturesque harbor, the Marina Piccola.
A popular destination for both tourists and locals alike, the marina is known for its stunning views, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere, in a more tranquil setting than the island’s main port, Marina Grande.
Surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush flora, a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars line the marina, making it the perfect place to begin your time in Capri, soaking up the views of the Bay of Naples while planning your time ahead.
If you’re eager to get in the clear blue waters surrounding the island, you can also swim in the water around the Marina Piccola at one of the nearby beaches.
Blue Grotto
After a relaxing start, I recommend making your way to experience one of the island’s most iconic locations, the Blue Grotto.
The Blue Grotto, or “La Grotta Azzurra” is a famous sea cave renowned for its stunning blue light that fills the cave, creating a magical and ethereal atmosphere. The Blue Grotto cannot be reached by foot or private boat and is only accessible by small rowboats that are guided by experienced locals.
To reach the Blue Grotto, you have two options; you can walk down the stairs towards the shoreline from Anacapri, or travel by boat from Marina Grande, either private or take part in a tour of the glistening Capri waters.
As only small 2- to 4-person rowboats can enter the cave, even if you’ve taken a private boat to the area, you’ll have to transfer to one of the local rowboats to enter. Queues can also become extremely long and entrance to the Blue Grotto depends on the weather, so loosely plan your visit in advance.
For quicker access to the Blue Grotto and a stunning way to witness the waters around Capri, you’ll find many companies offering boat tours including some that are private tours which include a stop at the Blue Grotto, a ride to get a great view of the Faraglioni Rocks and plenty of opportunities to swim.
Lunch at Piazza Umberto I
Located in the center of Capri, you’ll find the island’s main square or “Piazzetta”, Piazza Umberto I. Historically, the piazza was once a fish market, but today, the Piazzetta is one of the most important gathering points and commercial centers for locals and tourists.
Often considered one of the most picturesque and characteristic squares in the world and although tiny, Piazza Umberto I is the ideal spot to enjoy a delicious Caprese lunch and take part in the chosen activity of the locals, people watching! For lunch, I suggest heading to the restaurant “Pulalli”, for local specialties and a pleasant atmosphere.
Also located in the square, you’ll find notable landmarks of Capri, such as the Clock Tower and the historic Church of Santo Stefano. Next to the unique Clock Tower, is Capri’s main church, the Church of Santo Stefano.
Dating back to the 17th century as a dedication to Saint Stephen, the church is powerfully simple, with stunning architecture and an important peek into the past of this modernly famous and lavish island.
Gardens of Augustus
After wandering around the center hub of Capri, enjoy a scenic and short walk to Capri’s oasis from its busy center and bustling streets, the Gardens of Augustus.
The Gardens of Augustus is a thriving collection of Botanics once established by the German industrialist Friedrich Alfred Krupp in the early twentieth century, known today for its classic panoramic shots of Capri, the crystalline sea, and the famous Faraglioni Rocks.
Stroll around the elegant garden grounds while taking in the serene atmosphere, idyllic views, and opulent gardens. The gardens are typically open from early morning to sunset, with a small entry fee used to maintain the gardens and grounds.
Day 2 – Anacapri, Limoncello & Punta Carena Lighthouse
If you’re seeing Capri in 2 days, the second day will be mainly spent on the other side of the island.
Anacapri
While the island’s namesake town of Capri is the bustling and glamorous side of the island, the other main town – Anacapri – offers a striking contrast.
While Capri suits the likes of a glitzier crowd searching for glamour and expensive restaurants, Anacapri is more laid back, with fewer tourists, and tucked into the higher end of the island among its lush vegetation.
While both sides are unique and beautiful in their own right and worth visiting, Anacapri is perfect if you’re looking to enjoy a different side of the island.
While in Anacapri, enjoy a lunch at one of the town’s local (and more affordable) restaurants, wander the quaint and enchanting alleys of the town, check out local artisanal shops, visit the Villa San Michele museum and make your way up the island’s highest peak, Mount Solaro by chairlift for outstanding views of Capri and its waters. You can also take a boat trip here.
Limoncello Tasting
While the birthplace of limoncello is contested throughout various parts of southern Italy and the Amalfi Coast, it’s undoubtedly an integral part of the Capri. This zesty, sweet, and citrusy liqueur is a key component of Italian culture that is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and refreshing qualities.
To take a further taste into this important and famous Italian digestive drink that may have found its start on the island of Capri, I recommend taking part in a local limoncello tasting to taste this tart liquid at its source and learn more about its history and its varieties.
For an experience even more hands-on, you can also find limoncello-making workshops throughout the island to get a better understanding of limoncello, as well as a fun experience.
Limoncello di Capri and Carthusia Perfumeries are both locations on the island offering limoncello tastings and an insight into their production.
Punta Carena Lighthouse
For mesmerising sunset views to close out your day in Capri, there’s no better place to visit than one of the island’s most iconic landmarks, the Punta Carena Lighthouse or the “Faro di Punta Carena”.
Located on the southwestern point of the island, the lighthouse proudly stands on the rugged cliffs of the shores of Capri overlooking the boundless Tyrennhian sea. First built in 1862, the lighthouse still remains operational and is an important aspect of Capri’s maritime history and cultural heritage.
Once at the lighthouse, you can explore the grounds around the lighthouse, take in the breathtaking views, and even climb to the top of the lighthouse.
There’s also a cafe by the lighthouse, making it an ideal spot to grab snacks and a drink to watch the painted Caprese sunset while surrounded by this special and integral part of the island.
Day 3 – Procida
While Capri itself is an outstanding and worthy adventure in its own right, its small size may make you ready to explore somewhere new if you’re seeing Capri in 3 days.
This circumstance offers the perfect situation to get further out into the Bay of Naples and visit one of its other loved islands, Procida. The island is easily reached from Capri by ferry or hydrofoil in 40 minutes to an hour, offering the perfect day trip.
Procida
Considered a hidden gem in comparison to neighboring Capri, Procida offers a charming and authentic, laid-back Italian island experience. Known for its colorful, pastel homes and picturesque landscapes, Procida will surely charm you from the moment of your arrival.
While Capri is full of dazzling beaches, they’re pretty much all rock beaches, making it difficult for visitors that aren’t used to rock shorelines compared to sandy beaches. Procida on the other hand offers sand beaches such as Chiaiolella Beach, with dark volcanic sand and shallow turquoise waters.
Other ventures to enjoy while in Procida are enjoying the island’s Marina Grande and taking in the stunning, photographable pastel homes and buildings, climbing up to the Terra Murata, and spending time in the quaint fishing village of Marina Chiaiolella.
Where to Stay on Capri
To Be Capri – Located in Capri Town, this little hotel is perfect for those after a mid-rage stay on the island. Situated perfectly for exploring the town and the island itself during your Capri itinerary, they are pet-friendly and have a number of great rooms on offer.
Villa Calypso – Luxury travellers will love this opulent hotel. They have an excellent location for exploring all Capri has to offer along with plenty of wonderful rooms and plush amenities to enjoy.
Villa Castello Apartments – These apartments are perfect for those who would prefer to have a self-catering option on the island. Located in Capri Town, they have a range of fully-furnished flats to choose form and all come equipped with all you may need.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Capri hotels!
Whether you’re visiting Capri to enjoy the lavish side of the island or plan to head to Anacapri and settle into the tranquil nature, there’s no argument about how special, stunning, and historic the island is.
Are you planning to visit Capri? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!
