Capri Island

Capri is a limestone island in the Bay of Naples, off the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula. Since Roman emperors built villas here, its cliffs, grottoes, gardens and elegant lanes have drawn travellers, artists and celebrities, and it remains one of the most famous islands in the Mediterranean.

The island has two towns. Capri, reached by funicular from the harbour of Marina Grande, centres on the Piazzetta, a small square of cafés, and its lanes lead to the Gardens of Augustus with views over the Faraglioni, three rock stacks rising from the sea, and the winding Via Krupp. Anacapri, higher up, has Villa San Michele, built by the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe, and a chairlift to Monte Solaro, the island's highest point. Show more

The Blue Grotto, a sea cave lit by an intense blue light, is reached by small rowing boats when the sea is calm. Boat trips around the island pass further grottoes and the arch of the Faraglioni. Walking paths lead to Villa Jovis, the ruined palace of Emperor Tiberius, to the Arco Naturale and along the Pizzolungo path. Insalata caprese, ravioli capresi and torta caprese, a chocolate almond cake, are named after the island.

Capri is reached by ferry and hydrofoil from Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. A day trip is common, while an overnight stay shows the island at its quietest. Spring and autumn are ideal, summer is very busy, and many hotels close in winter.