Capri, the blue island. What to do in less than a day: how to get there, what to see, and practical tips

Capri needs no introduction, yet it always manages to surprise its visitors. It's not just a place, but an invitation to observe the sea in a different way.

From Hotel Il Convento, organizing a short visit is easy. The important thing is to leave early, wear comfortable shoes, and don't insist on seeing everything. To truly get to know Capri, you need to take your time.

In brief

From Naples, Capri can be reached by ferry (slower) or hydrofoil (faster). The difference in travel time is negligible, about 20 minutes, but if your planned excursion lasts only a day, those few minutes can make a difference in choosing what to visit. From Hotel Il Convento, it's just a 15-minute walk to Molo Beverello, where the most frequent connections depart. The crossing takes about an hour.

Where is Capri?

Capri is located about 17 kilometres off the coast from Naples. On a clear day, it's easy to see, and you can already sense its proximity.

There are two main towns on the island: Capri and Anacapri. The former is more famous and popular, while the latter maintains a more relaxed pace and often surprises those seeking something less explored and less shared on social media.

How to get to Capri from Hotel Il Convento

Leaving Hotel Il Convento, head onto Via Toledo. Opposite you will find the former headquarters of the Banco di Napoli, now a museum called “Gallerie d’Italia.” On the right side of this building is a small street called Via Imbriani; just take it and you’ll immediately see the sea ahead. In a few minutes, you’ll reach Molo Beverello. The enormous square you'll cross is Piazza del Municipio, and perhaps we'll talk about it in another article. Its history is truly interesting.

Numerous hydrofoils depart daily from Molo Beverello to Capri.

Many of our guests enjoyed the ferry trip, especially not the hydrofoil, because, if the sea conditions allow, it’s truly breathtaking to see Naples slowly recede, gaze at Vesuvius from the sea, and notice the island's increasingly clear profile. It’s one of those moments that end up being remembered more than the destination itself. On hydrofoils, it’s often impossible to find seats outside, especially if the vessel is very crowded.

Another very important suggestion: in the summer months, it’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance, especially on weekends, but also to check sea conditions. If the weather deteriorates, the boat you've planned to take to Capri may not depart. The sea, especially in the winter months or on windier days, can force schedule changes or cancellations. This can happen in the summer as well; some of our guests have experienced this.

How much does a day in Capri cost?

Tourists agree: Capri isn’t a cheap destination; it’s best to know in advance.

It all depends on your personal choices, your needs, and your expectations. Anyway, Capri has luxury in its DNA, so if you want to indulge and dream, even if just for a day, this island is the right destination.

When to visit Capri

Spring and early autumn are the best times.

April, May, June, and September offer pleasant temperatures and a more manageable tourist population.

July and August offer beautiful days, but also crowds, waits, and higher prices.

Whichever season you choose, we recommend arriving in the early hours of the morning. This way, you’ll discover a different side of Capri than the one you see in social media photos: quieter, almost intimate.

What to see in Capri

The Piazzetta

Piazza Umberto I, known simply as the Piazzetta, is the symbolic center of life on Capri.

In photographs, it often seems very large. In reality, up close, it appears true to its size and for what it is in essence: a small open-air living room.

The Gardens of Augustus

Few places sum up Capri like the Gardens of Augustus.

From here, you can admire the Faraglioni, the sea, and the winding Via Krupp that descends along the rock face.

It's one of the most photographed views in Italy, but it always manages to captivate any tourist, revealing new perspectives.

The Faraglioni

If New York has the Statue of Liberty, Capri has the Faraglioni. A symbol of identity recognized throughout the world, just like the famous American statue. Many American tourists have noticed this similarity and highlighted it in their stories after their excursion to the island.

Even those who don’t normally enjoy tourist attractions end up stopping for a few minutes in silence. There are many points of the island from which you can admire them, but if you can organize a boat tour, crossing them is a breathtaking experience.

Via Camerelle

This small street represents the most exclusive side of the island.

There's no need to buy anything. Even simply watching the world go by is part of the experience.

Why you shouldn’t just stop in Capri

Many visitors arrive, visit the Piazzetta, and leave.

This is probably the most common mistake.

Anacapri is at least as worthwhile as the main town and often leaves more intense memories.

The streets are less crowded, the atmosphere less glamorous but evocative.

What to see in Anacapri

Mount Solaro

The chairlift that leads to Mount Solaro allows you to reach the highest point on the island.

The climb is slow and silent. Below, gardens, terraces, and glimpses of the sea unfold.

The view from here extends over the Gulf of Naples, the Sorrento Peninsula, and, on clear days, all the way to the Amalfi Coast.

Villa San Michele

Built by the Swedish physician and writer Axel Munthe, Villa San Michele offers gardens, archaeological finds, and a view that alone is worth the visit.

It is one of the most evocative places on the island and is often overlooked by rushed visitors.

A one-day itinerary in Capri

If you only have one day available, a balanced itinerary could be this:

- departure from Naples in the morning;

- arrival in Capri and stroll to the Piazzetta

- visit to the Gardens of Augustus

- transfer to Anacapri

- climb Mount Solaro

- lunch in Anacapri

- visit to Villa San Michele

- return to the center of Capri

- hydrofoil to Naples in the late afternoon

Where to eat in Capri

Capri offers options for every budget, from small restaurants to the most exclusive panoramic terraces.

We recommend avoiding restaurants immediately adjacent to the busiest spots if you're looking for a quieter experience.

As is often the case, you only need to wander a few streets away to find a different atmosphere.

If you decide to pack a picnic lunch, look for the delicatessen “Da Aldo” as soon as you arrive at the port. Anyone who decides to spend a day on a boat stock up on supplies at this precious and historic island delicatessen before setting off. A true reference point.

Practical Tips

Bring a bottle of water and suitable walking shoes: there are plenty of hills.

In the warmer months, it’s helpful to have a hat and sunscreen.

But above all, don’t rush.

Capri is one of those places that are better understood by sitting on a bench for a few minutes than by rushing from one attraction to another.

What to do upon returning to Naples

After a day on Capri, we recommend continuing your evening without straying too far from the Hotel Il Convento.

Via Toledo, the Spanish Quarter, Largo Maradona, and the historic centre offer the perfect opportunity to end the day with a stroll and a typical Neapolitan dinner.

Some areas have steps and slopes. It's a good idea to plan your transportation options before your visit.