A SLOW GUIDE TO CAPRI with Il Capri Hotel
Capri is all about colors, contrasts and a sea of umbrellas. But it’s also an island rich in history and stories, with a vibrant culture and a cuisine that makes you pause with every bite. Pasta, salads, seafood, oh mamma mia!
We travelled to Capri with Il Capri Hotel, a pink palazzo in the heart of the island that invited us to slow down, rest, eat well and explore a different side of Capri. Beyond the designer boutiques and glamorous parties, we found something more intimate. A quieter, more local rhythm. Simple flavours, salty air, old paths and long sunsets.
This guide is the result of that journey. A slow exploration of the island’s two faces: the refined and the raw, the polished and the honest, the dream and the everyday.
We hope it inspires you to experience the Mediterranean with fresh eyes. Slower, softer and full of wonder.
WHAT TO DO IN CAPRI
Capri has two main towns each with its own vibe. Capri is the glamorous heart of the island, full of chic shops and lively streets. Anacapri feels quieter and more local, with a slower pace and hidden gems that show a different, authentic side of island life.
Besides visiting both towns, we also recommend:
- Villa Lysis: 1905 neoclassical poet’s villa by Count Fersen
- Villa Jovis: Emperor Tiberius’ cliffside palace
- Museo Ignazio Cerio: Museum with Capri’s archaeological treasures
- Castello di Barbarossa: Ancient fortress via Monte Solaro trail
- Cimitero Acattolico: Cemetery with sea views
- Certosa di San Giacomo: 14th-century monastery
- Casa Rossa (Anacapri): Pompeii-red villa exhibiting 19th-century art
WHAT TO SEE IN CAPRI
Sunrise plans: Perfect for early risers!
- Arco Naturale: Soft morning light through the stone arch
- Via del Pizzolungo: Cliffside path, enjoy nature & views in peaceful silence, such as Casa Malaparte
- Monte Solaro: Island’s highest peak, glowing softly as the new day awakens
- Eremo di Cetrella: Ancient hermitage perched on Monte Solaro
- Parco Astarita: Wild park overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea
Midday plans: Where to wander slowly
- Tragara viewpoint: Breathtaking panorama of Faraglioni
- Piazzetta delle Noci: Quiet stone terrace with Mediterranean views
- Sentiero dei Fortini: Coastal hike past old forts and wild flora
- Gardens of Augustus: Botanical garden terraces with views over Faraglioni & Via Krupp.
- Via Krupp: Path carved into the cliffside. Walk it slowly—it's a masterpiece!
Sunset plans: Enjoy Capri’s golden hour magic
- Belvedere della Migliara: Panoramic cliffs, peaceful and wild
- Faro di Punta Carena: Swim, spritz & sunset by the sea
- Belvedere di Matermania: Viewpoint along Via Pizzolungo, quiet and scenic
- “Hidden” corners near Migliara: Walk past the main viewpoint for peaceful picnic spots
- Villa San Michele (Anacapri): Golden light + panoramic views = magic
- Via Lo Capo (Capri): A quiet path with open views
WHERE TO EAT IN CAPRI
Il sapore di Capri: local meals we loved!
Capri’s flavors are as vibrant and colorful as the island itself. From fresh simple dishes to sweet delights every bite tells a story of tradition and passion. Here are some of the local specialties that stole our hearts and our appetite.
- Panini Caprese
- Insalata Caprese
- Ravioli Capresi
- Pezzogna all’acqua pazza
- Totani e Patate
- Panini from “Salumeria Da Aldo”
- Frittata di pasta
- Torta Caprese
- Limoncello di Capri
- Granita di limone
Lunch at a Beach-club
Fresh flavors and sea views that taste like summer. These beach clubs are the perfect way to soak in Capri’s essence with sun, water, and good food.
- Bagni Tiberio
- Bagni Internazionali
- Ilu
- Lido del Faro
- Torre Saracena
Lunch spots
Places with soul where local food takes center stage. Simple and authentic spots to enjoy real flavors during your midday break.
- La Grotelle
- Vesuvio (at Il Capri Hotel)
- Lo Sfizio
- Columbus Café (Anacapri)
Dinner spots
When evening falls Capri dresses up. Here you’ll find dinners that blend tradition and elegance with special corners to savor the night.
- Il Capri Hotel Rooftop
- Da Gelsomina
- Pedro
In-between meals
Those moments when you want something light or sweet to keep exploring. Local gems to snack and recharge without losing your pace.
- Anacapri 1970
- Buonocore Gelateria
Extra, extra! Local Shops
- Get a book at bookstore “La Conchiglia”
- Ceramics at Il Gabbiano & La Bagattella
- Eco Capri (wonderful shirts, caftans and dresses with illustrations by the owner’s grandmother)
- Da Costanzo & Canfora for some chic and summery homemade Capri sandals
WHERE TO STAY IN CAPRI
We couldn’t leave without recommending Il Capri Hotel. If you’re looking for an authentic experience and a unique design that captures Capri’s personality—a blend of timeless elegance, no frills luxury, retro glam and beauty: this is the place to be. Plus, its unbeatable location makes it the perfect base to explore much of the island.
WHERE TO SWIM IN CAPRI
Capri’s coastline is a captivating mix of free beaches and exclusive beach clubs. The public spiaggias and rocky coves invite you to relax without a fee, often offering stunning views and natural charm. On the other hand, Capri is famous for its private spiaggias and beach clubs. These spots offer a more curated and comfortable experience, with sunbeds, wait service, and a chic atmosphere
Free spiaggias & rocky coves
Perfect for enjoying the sea with locals and fellow travelers, all without an entry fee.
- Marina Piccola. Note: A charming bay with calm waters and stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks. You can walk there from Capri town, but be ready for some ups and downs. Alternatively, taxis and buses also reach it easily.
- Marina Grande. Note: The main port of Capri, bustling and lively, but just a short walk to one side you'll find a small, quiet cove.
- Palazzo a Mare
- Punta Carena. Note: A rocky coastline famous for its lighthouse and dramatic cliffs, perfect for watching unforgettable sunsets.
- Gradola
Private spiaggias & beach clubs
These offer sunbeds, waiter service, and chic vibes. Note that some require booking and staying for lunch at their restaurants to access the beach facilities.
- Bagni Tiberio
- Bagni Internazionali
- Da Luigi
- Lido del Faro
- Torre Saracena
Only reachable by boat or via a long hike
Hidden gems for those seeking adventure and solitude away from the crowds.
- Punta di Mulo
- Marina di Pennauro
- Cala del Rio
HOW TO MOVE AROUND
- Bus & Taxis. No cars allowed (at least for visitors).
Capri is mostly pedestrian. Locals move around with small buses, charming open-air taxis or on foot. Buses are frequent but small, so patience is part of the journey. Taxis are iconic, convertible and perfect for short rides with a view.
- Fonicolare. A quick 5-minute funicular ride from Marina Grande to Capri town: runs every 15 minutes and offers great views
- Mount Solaro Chair Lift. A thrilling ride to the island’s highest point. Not for the faint-hearted!
BEFORE TRAVELING
- Always keep water handy
- Use SPF
- Beware of wild animals, like goats or snakes. Yes, you read right!
- In case of emergency, call 118
MAP OF CAPRI
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