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A day trip to Capri from Naples needs careful planning to avoid tourist traps and transport headaches. After multiple visits, I’ll show you how to experience the best of the island in a limited time.
The moment you step off the ferry at Marina Grande, Capri hits you with its contrasts.
Crowds surge towards the funicular while luxury yachts bob in the harbour. Designer boutiques beckon just up the hill, while ancient Roman ruins wait quietly in the distance.
After multiple day trips to this legendary island, I’ve learned that Capri rewards those who look beyond the obvious.
Many guides will tell you exactly where to go, hour by hour. But here is the thing – there’s no single ‘perfect’ way to do Capri in a day.
Some visitors dream of the Blue Grotto, others want to escape to hiking trails, and some just want to soak in those famous coastal views. I’ve done it all different ways, and each visit has shown me another layer of the island.
That’s why this guide is a little bit different.
Instead of a rigid itinerary, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about making the most of your limited time – from navigating the ferry system (and avoiding seasickness!) to choosing between different attractions based on your interests.
You’ll find practical tips about managing crowds, several themed itinerary options, and insider knowledge about where to eat without falling into tourist traps.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more deeply, this guide will help you create your own perfect day on Capri.
Cultured Voyages Top Naples to Capri Day Trip Resources
→ Ferries: Search ferry schedules and book tickets here
Top Tours & Experiences in Capri
⭑ Private Capri Boat Tour
⭑ Blue Grotto & Guided Tour of Capri + Anacapri
⭑ Small-Group Boat Tour of Caves of Capri
Best full/half-day guided experiences from Naples:
⭑ Bay of Naples & Capri Sightseeing Boat Tour from Naples
⭑ Capri, Anacapri & Blue Grotto Full-Day Tour from Naples
Staying The Night? Cultured Voyages Accommodation Picks
→ To Be Capri Sea View Rooms – luxe for less
→ Piazetta Diefenbach – classy boutique luxury
→ Villa Patrizzi – beautiful bolthole steps from Capri’s Piazzetta
→ Il Giardino dell’Arte – a tucked away gem in Anacapri
Table of Contents
- Before You Visit Capri
- Getting to Capri from Naples
- Getting Around Capri
- Top Attractions in Capri for a One-Day Visit
- Suggested 1-Day Capri Itineraries
- Tips for Making the Most of Your Day Trip
- Where to Eat in Capri
- Capri, Ischia, or Procida: Choosing Your Day Trip From Naples
- Common Questions to Have When Visiting Capri For a Day
- Alternative Departure Points to Capri
- Continue Planning Your Trip to Capri
Ancient Rome to Instagram: Capri’s Evolution from Imperial Retreat to Global Icon
While today’s visitors flock to Capri’s designer boutiques and beach clubs, the island’s magnetism began with Roman emperors. Augustus traded nearby Ischia for this dramatic limestone outcrop, while Tiberius built Villa Jovis – one of twelve imperial villas that dotted the island.
The 19th century brought a different kind of cultural renaissance. Artists, writers, and intellectuals discovered Capri’s rugged beauty. Villa Lysis and Villa San Michele stand as testaments to this period – when the island attracted free spirits seeking creative inspiration and liberal views rather than imperial power.
This layered history persists beneath modern Capri’s glamorous surface. While crowds surge through the Piazzetta, quieter corners like Villa Jovis offer glimpses of what first drew people to these shores – dramatic views, serene isolation, and an atmosphere that has inspired visitors for over two millennia.
Before You Visit Capri
The ferry journey is your first taste of island life, and it can set the tone for your entire day. If you’re planning on visiting Capri in a day, there are a few things I’ve learned from my visits that you should know upfront.
Time Management | Firstly, time moves differently on this island – you’ll have less of it than you think. Between ferry queues, funicular lines, and bus wait times, a good chunk of your day can slip away just getting from A to B.
Advance Planning | Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during high season and weekends. You don’t want to be one of the disappointed faces at the ticket office when ferries are full. The island gets incredibly busy, particularly between 11am and 4pm when day-trippers are at their peak.
Setting Expectations | Also, be realistic about what you can cover. On my first day trip to Capri I made the mistake of trying to squeeze too much in – remember that Capri rewards those who take their time, even if that time is limited. It will work out much better for you than running around like a sweaty, stressed maniac!
Getting to Capri from Naples
The ferry journey is your first taste of island life, and it can set the tone for your entire day. From Naples’ Molo Beverello port, you have several options – I usually take the high-speed ferry, which takes around 50 minutes. Four companies run services (SNAV, NLG, Caremar, and Caremar Hydrofoil), with prices ranging from €52-208 per person.
Avoiding Seasickness
If you’re like me and tend to get seasick, here’s a tip I wish I’d known earlier: sit at the back of the boat. I learned this the hard way during one particularly choppy crossing where I made the mistake of sitting up top – not only did I feel ill, but I got soaked by the waves! Now I always pack anti-nausea medication just in case.
Arrival & Transport Options
In the peak summer season, the first ferry departs at 05:35, with the last return at 19:40 (check up-to-date schedules here, as these change throughout the year).
With this in mind, my advice would be to get an early start – you can always snooze on the ferry.
When you dock at Marina Grande, you’ll be faced with your first choice – funicular or bus to Capri town.
Both have their pros and cons, but here’s what I’ve learned: during peak times, expect to wait 30-60 minutes for either option.
One strategy is to split up your group – one person can queue while another buys tickets (you’ll need them before joining the funicular line).
The funicular itself only takes 4 minutes and drops you right by the Piazzetta, but those queues can be brutal. Whatever you choose, move quickly when you disembark the ferry – both the bus station and funicular will be to your right, and the sooner you get in line, the better.
Getting Around Capri
From Marina Grande: Your First Move
When you arrive at Marina Grande, you’re faced with two choices to reach Capri town (assuming that’s your first port of call):
- Funicular: 4 minutes, drops you at the Piazzetta
- Bus: 15 minutes to Capri town, continues to Anacapri
Despite how busy it can be and the queuing involved, I’d recommend the funicular option – yes, the queues can be long, but it’s quicker and offers lovely views across the bay. Once you actually get through the barrier as well, getting on and off the funicular is very organised.
Just remember to buy tickets (€2.40) separately from the kiosk before joining the line.
If you’re thinking of taking the bus, be prepared for a wait.
During one visit, I found myself queuing for nearly an hour just to get on a bus to Anacapri from the port. The buses are tiny – designed to navigate Capri’s narrow roads – which means they can only take a handful of passengers at a time. You might watch two or three full buses leave before finally getting a spot, as you have to wait for them to make the return journey from Anacapri each time.
Onward to Anacapri
From Marina Grande to Anacapri, you can either:
- Take the direct bus (25 minutes).
- Go via Capri town (funicular up, then switch to Anacapri bus).
While the direct bus might seem more efficient, I’ve found going via Capri town often works better – you can explore the Piazzetta first, and bus connections are more frequent. Plus, the bus journey itself becomes part of the experience. Grab a seat on the right side heading up to Anacapri – the views are spectacular, though I’ll warn you that the hairpin turns aren’t for the faint-hearted!
Time-Saving Tips
The island’s bus system took me by surprise on my first visit – these aren’t your typical buses but tiny minibuses designed for Capri’s narrow roads. While this makes perfect sense, it also means space is limited and queues are inevitable. During peak hours (11am-4pm), expect:
- 30-60 minutes for funicular queues
- 20-30+ minutes for bus queues
Through trial and error, I’ve found some workarounds. In Anacapri, walk about 100 meters up Viale Tommaso de Tommaso to the earlier bus stop – you’ll often get a seat while others are still queuing in the main square. A €7.20 daily ticket (plus €1 deposit) makes sense if you’re planning multiple journeys.
Walking the Island
Sometimes walking is quicker than waiting for transport. The stepped path from Capri town to Marina Grande takes 15 minutes downhill – you can opt for this rather than queue for the funicular, especially in the afternoon.
For the adventurous, the Phoenician Steps between Anacapri and Marina Grande offer a stunning 30-minute descent through Capri’s history. Each step reveals another spectacular view of the Bay of Naples. Just don’t attempt them uphill unless you’re feeling particularly energetic – there are 921 steps!
Top Attractions in Capri for a One-Day Visit
Marina Grande Area
Your first glimpse of Capri starts here.
While most visitors rush through, it’s worth noting the departure point for Blue Grotto tours (€24 transfer + €18 entry).
I’d recommend booking these for earlier in the day rather than later – I’ve learned that afternoon seas can get choppy and tours often cancel. The actual grotto visit is brief – just 5 minutes – but the luminescent blue water makes it magical if you time it right (best between 12-2pm for the brightest effect).
Capri Town
The Piazzetta
This is Capri’s beating heart, but I’ll be honest – during peak hours it can feel overwhelming. Naturally, like elsewhere on the island, it’s an altogether nicer experience in the early morning when patrons sip espresso at tiny cafe tables, or early evening when day-trippers have departed. Do note that the prices at the cafes around the Piazzetta are (almost criminally) expensive.
Via Camerelle
Capri’s designer shopping street is worth a stroll even if you’re not buying. The window displays are worth taking at least a peep at, and the people-watching is unmatched – you’ll find a strange mix of rather elegant folks, potentially some celebrities, and what we could politely deem as ‘characters’.
Gardens of Augustus
Just 10 minutes from the Piazzetta, these gardens offer the classic Capri photo opportunity – the dramatic Faraglioni rocks jutting from azure waters. Entry is just €1.50, making it one of Capri’s best value stops. I’d recommend heading here first thing – by midday the viewing platforms get incredibly crowded.
Villa Jovis
The 45-minute uphill walk deters many visitors, which is exactly why I love it. Emperor Tiberius’ largest villa (€6 entry) offers both fascinating ruins and the most peaceful views across the Bay of Naples. Combine it with nearby Villa Lysis (€2.50) for a glimpse of Capri’s more recent artistic history.
Anacapri
Monte Solaro
Taking the chairlift to Capri’s highest point (589m) gives you a completely different perspective of the island. The 12-minute ride costs €12 round trip, and while some find it nerve-wracking, the views are worth it. Morning visits offer the clearest vistas before the afternoon haze sets in.
Villa San Michele
This museum house showcases Swedish physician Axel Munthe’s eclectic collection, but the real star is the garden. While everyone photographs the famous sphinx, I prefer finding a quiet corner to gaze over the Bay of Naples. At €10, it offers a more relaxed experience than Capri town’s attractions.
Coastal Highlights
Faraglioni Rocks
These limestone stacks are Capri’s most photographed feature. While you’ll spot them from various viewpoints, nothing beats seeing them up close by boat. If you arrange it in advance, you can easily arrange a boat tour of the island that will fit within your day trip timing restraints. This one is……..
Marina Piccola
This small beach area gets busy but offers decent swimming spots. It’s also a good lunch stop with several restaurants overlooking the water. Just don’t expect to have the place to yourself in summer.
Suggested 1-Day Capri Itineraries
Classic Highlights Route (6-7 hours)
Feel free to adjust the timings as per your own arrival on Capri, but I’ve provided timings below so you can get a general idea of how much you can realistically fit in a day trip, and how long each component might need.
Do remember, however, that the sooner you arrive there the better chance you have of there being less crowds vying for things like the funicular and local buses, so the transfer/logistics time for those will be shorter.
- 8:30 Arrive Marina Grande
- 9:00 Blue Grotto boat tour
- 10:30 Funicular to Capri town (accounting for queues)
- 11:00 Gardens of Augustus for Faraglioni views
- 12:00 Via Camerelle window shopping
- 13:00 Lunch break – either:
- Head to Anacapri for local spots, or
- Book La Capannina in Capri town (a 1930s trattoria housed under a charming archway. This historic gem has hosted countless celebrities and serves excellent regional dishes – they also accommodated my gluten-free needs perfectly).
- 14:30 Bus to Anacapri
- 15:00 Monte Solaro chairlift
- 16:00 Villa San Michele
- 17:00 Return to Marina Grande
Nature & Walking Focus
This route combines Capri’s most dramatic landscapes with its highest point. Start early to fit everything in (although you can push out this itinerary to start later, also):
- 8:30 Arrive Marina Grande
- 9:00 Bus to Anacapri (factor in queue time)
- 9:30 Monte Solaro chairlift (€12 return) Spend an hour at the summit – on a clear day, you’ll see the entire Bay of Naples and Amalfi Coast spread before you.
- 11:00 Bus to Capri town
- 11:30 Begin Pizzolungo path:
- Natural Arch
- Dramatic Faraglioni viewpoints
- Ancient Grotta di Matermania
- Belvedere of Tragara (stunning coastal views)
- 14:30 Late lunch in Capri town
- 16:00 Optional: Gardens of Augustus
- 17:00 Return to Marina Grande
The Pizzolungo circuit takes 2-3 hours depending on your pace and photo stops. While it’s a relatively easy walk, wear proper shoes – the paths can be uneven. And also, be aware that it could be really hot; Capri is still pretty toasty on a fine day come October, so summer heat can be pretty brutal.
Culture & History Focus
This is my personal favourite route that avoids the busiest spots:
- Early arrival at Marina Grande and funicular up to Capri town.
- Take in Capri town & Gardens of Augustus briefly.
- Villa Jovis hike & sightseeing
- Villa Lysis
- Take the bus to Anacapri.
- Lunch in Anacapri
- Villa San Michele
- Descend Phoenician Steps to Marina Grande (30 minutes, 921 steps).
Time-Limited Route (4-5 hours)
If you’re really pressed for time, focus on these essentials:
- Gardens of Augustus viewpoint
- Quick bus trip to Anacapri
- Monte Solaro chairlift
- Natural Arch (if time permits)
Tips for Any Capri-in-One-Day Itinerary
- Start early to beat the biggest crowds.
- Book the return ferry for late afternoon/early evening – and do these DAYS in advance. Do not leave it to the day of, as the later ferries book up the fastest. You want to give yourself the longest amount of time as possible on the island.
- Keep transport delays in mind.
- Be flexible – queues might mean adjusting plans.
- The weather may scupper any plans for boat tours or the Blue Grotto if the seas are choppy.
- Leave time for wandering.
- Bring proper walking shoes if you want to explore properly – Capri’s paths are steep.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Day Trip
Dealing with Crowds
The biggest challenge you’ll face in Capri isn’t the terrain – it’s the crowds. Between 11am and 4pm, the island sees its heaviest foot traffic. I’ve found early morning exploration essential, particularly for popular spots like the Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus.
Timing Your Visit
- Avoid weekends if possible.
- May and September/October offer perfect weather with fewer crowds; don’t except there to be crowds, however – just less than peak summer footfall.
- Early morning ferries (before 9am) give you a head start.
- Some attractions close during winter months.
- Blue Grotto visits depend heavily on weather and sea conditions.
Money-Saving Tips
Capri isn’t known for bargains, but there are ways to keep costs reasonable:
- Pack a water bottle, or purchase from the supermarket instead of cafés or restaurants.
- Consider a daily transport ticket (€7.20) if making multiple journeys.
- Book ferry tickets well in advance for better rates.
- Many viewpoints and walking routes are free (and dare I say it, present some of the best experiences).
- Step away from tourist hotspots for more reasonable lunch prices.
What to Pack
Based on my visits, these essentials will make your day more comfortable:
- Comfortable walking shoes (no heels – Capri’s streets are cobbled).
- Sun protection.
- Light layers to cover your shoulders if it’s very hot/a little breezy.
- Swimming gear if visiting in summer and you want to visit a beach club – it’s entirely possible to just visit one for the day if you so wish.
- Anti-nausea medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
Weather Considerations
Always check the weather forecast before your trip. When seas are rough:
- Blue Grotto often closes when the seas are too choppy to safely make it through the mouth of the cave.
- Ferry services may be limited/cancelled.
- Boat tours might be cancelled.
- Monte Solaro chairlift can close in high winds.
Where to Eat in Capri
Finding good food in Capri isn’t difficult, but finding good value can be. After several visits to the island, I’ve learned that stepping away from the main tourist areas leads to better meals at more reasonable prices.
Local Specialities in Capri
The island’s cuisine is unsurprisingly seafood-focused. Look out for pezzogna (red seabream) prepared all’acqua pazza – a local cooking style using cherry tomatoes, parsley, garlic and olive oil.
If you’re a seafood lover, the local shrimp, caught between Capri and Massa Lubrense, are exceptional whether served raw with olive oil or tossed through pasta.
Ravioli capresi is the island’s signature pasta. Made with a light dough of just flour and water, it’s filled with Parmigiano and aged caciotta cheese, and then served with fresh tomato and basil sauce.
For something a little different, try spaghetti alla Nerano, where pasta meets zucchini and cheese in a surprisingly delicious combination – I had a lovely version of this in La Capannina in Capri town.
Restaurant Recommendations
In Capri Town
La Capannina remains one of my favourites – this 1930s trattoria under an archway has hosted countless celebrities over the years. The regional dishes are excellent, and they handled my gluten-free requirements perfectly. Booking ahead is essential.
Da Giorgio, just off the main Piazzetta, offers good value (rare for Capri!) and lovely views over the Gulf of Naples. Try to reserve a view table in advance.
For a quieter meal away from the crowds, Lo Sfizio on Via Tiberio serves authentic regional dishes and excellent pizza in a more local setting.
In Anacapri
Columbus Capri offers some of the island’s most authentic flavours, with produce sourced from the owners’ garden. Their terrace makes a lovely lunch spot.
Da Gelsomina, a family-run trattoria, offers stunning sunset views and house-made wines from their vineyard. Their ravioli capresi is particularly good.
Unique Dining Experiences
For something special, Da Paolino serves dinner beneath a canopy of lemon trees – it’s as atmospheric as it sounds and features heavily on Instagram. In Anacapri, La Zagara offers a similar setting with more upscale dining.
For high-end dining, l’Olivo at the Capri Palace holds two Michelin stars and presents local traditions in contemporary ways.
Dining Tips for Capri Day-Trippers
- Book ahead for any restaurant during peak season.
- Avoid restaurants directly on the Piazzetta (overpriced and often underwhelming).
- Consider a picnic from a local deli if hiking, or bring it with you from your point of origin if you’re conscious of budget.
- End your meal with torta caprese (chocolate and almond cake) and limoncello – both local specialities.
Capri, Ischia, or Procida: Choosing Your Day Trip From Naples
After countless trips exploring the Bay of Naples, I’m often asked which island makes the best day trip. The answer isn’t straightforward – each island offers something uniquely special, and your choice really depends on what you’re seeking.
Capri: Perfect for Day Trips
Capri is the most geared up for day-trippers. With frequent ferries from Naples and Sorrento, efficient (if busy) public transport, and concentrated attractions, you can genuinely experience its highlights in a day.
The island is compact enough that you won’t spend your whole visit on buses, and the main sights are well-connected. It’s perfect if you’re after those classic Mediterranean views, historic villas, or a taste of Italian glamour.
Ischia: Needs More Time
Ischia requires more strategy as a day trip. While ferry connections are good, the island is much larger than Capri, with six distinct towns. I’ve found it’s best to focus on one area – perhaps combining the Aragonese Castle with nearby thermal gardens.
You could hire a driver and visit in a day, but you’d barely scratch the surface. Ischia’s thermal spas, authentic restaurants, and local atmosphere really deserve at least an overnight stay, and some time to ease into them.
I’ve covered whether Ischia is worth visiting here, and also have a post about the top things to do there as well.
Procida: Small but Mighty
Then there’s Procida, the smallest and most overlooked of the three. Don’t let its size fool you – what Procida lacks in famous attractions it makes up for in charm. Its walkable size makes it perfect for day trips, and the regular ferry service from Naples takes just 40 minutes.
I love recommending Procida to visitors seeking a more authentic island experience away from tourist crowds.
For a deeper dive into these islands, check out my detailed comparison of Capri and Ischia, or read whether Procida is worth visiting.
Common Questions to Have When Visiting Capri For a Day
Is a day trip to Capri worth it?
Yes, while you won’t see everything, you can experience many of Capri’s highlights in a day. The key is planning and managing expectations. Some visitors worry it’s too rushed, but I’ve found that following a focused itinerary (like those above) lets you experience the island’s essence.
You’ll have time for stunning viewpoints, a nice lunch, and either cultural sites or boat trips, depending on your interests.
How much walking is involved?
Capri involves considerable walking and steps – it’s essentially built on a mountain! The historic centres are pedestrianised, and many of the best views require uphill walks. While public transport helps, you’ll still walk significant distances between attractions.
Steps are everywhere – the Phoenician Steps alone have 921! The main walking paths are well-maintained, but proper footwear is essential – those Instagram-worthy sandals might need to stay in your bag.
Is Capri expensive?
There’s no sugar-coating it – Capri is pricey. A coffee in the Piazzetta can cost upwards of €8, and restaurant prices in tourist hotspots can be eye-watering. However, you can manage costs by:
- Bringing water and snacks.
- Eating at local spots away from main squares.
- Focusing on free viewpoints and walking routes.
- Using public transport instead of taxis.
What if the weather is bad?
Weather significantly impacts a Capri day trip. Rough seas can cancel Blue Grotto visits, boat tours, and some ferry services. While indoor attractions like Villa San Michele remain open, much of Capri’s appeal lies in its outdoor views and coastal scenery.
I always recommend checking marine forecasts before booking and having a backup date if possible. If you’re visiting between November and March, be particularly mindful of weather conditions.
Alternative Departure Points to Capri
While this guide focuses on departing from Naples, you can also reach Capri from:
- Sorrento (20-30 minute journey): Frequent ferries make this the easiest alternative
- Positano (30 minutes): Seasonal ferries run April-October
- Amalfi (seasonal ferries): Less frequent but possible during the summer months
The same day-trip strategies apply, just adjust your timing based on the shorter journey times. From Sorrento especially, you’ll have more flexibility with arrival times, making it easier to beat the crowds.
Continue Planning Your Trip to Capri
Ready to dive deeper into this glamorous island? These guides will help you plan the perfect visit:
- Find the perfect base with my detailed guide to where to stay in Capri (coming soon)
- Going beyond a day trip? My complete Capri travel guide covers everything you need to know
- Torn between islands? My Capri vs Ischia comparison helps you choose the right destination
Exploring the Bay of Naples Region
Most visitors arrive in Capri via Naples but don’t just treat it as a transit point. This vibrant city deserves your time:
- Discover why Naples is worth visiting with my honest city guide
- Explore my favourite day trips from Naples to plan your wider Campanian adventure
- See my comprehensive guide to things to do in Naples
Planning a Longer Amalfi Coast Trip?
Capri pairs beautifully with the surrounding coastline and islands:
Follow my perfect 10-day Amalfi Coast itinerary for a comprehensive trip
Short on time? My 4-day Amalfi Coast guide helps you see the highlights
Discover the peaceful isle of Procida with my complete travel guide
Experience thermal paradise with my insider’s guide to Ischia
You’ll find all our Naples travel guides below—or head to our Naples destination hub for more tips, itineraries, and local insights.
Exploring further afield? Our Italy page organises content by region to help you plan.
Related reading for Capri & The Islands of The Bay of Naples
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