If you're planning a quick day trip to the enchanting island of Capri, Italy, you need a well-organized itinerary to make the most of your limited time. Whether you're staying in Sorrento or Naples, or on a cruise docking for 24 hours, this guide will help you experience the best of Capri in just one day.
One day tour from Sorrento to Capri
One day tour from Positano to Capri
If you choose to explore Capri on your own, follow this detailed itinerary to maximize your time and ensure you see the island's top attractions.
Capri Boat Tour and the Blue Grotto
Begin your day by arriving on Capri as early as possible. Head to the private jetty in Marina Grande, the same dock where most ferries from the mainland arrive. Purchase a ticket for the Capri boat tour, including a visit to the famous Blue Grotto.
You can choose between a complete circle tour, which sails through the dramatic Faraglioni rock formations, or a shorter tour that only goes as far as the Blue Grotto and back. We recommend opting for the full-circle tour.
Chairlift to the Top of Mount Solaro
Upon returning to Marina Grande, board a bus to Anacapri (a 20-minute ride). From here, take the chairlift to the summit of Monte Solaro, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bays of Naples and Salerno.
You can descend the mountain slope by chairlift or on foot. If you choose to walk (about 30 minutes), take a moment to visit the hermitage of Cetrella.
Villa San Michele
By now, you'll probably be hungry. You can either have lunch in one of Anacapri's restaurants, or grab a quick snack before heading to Villa San Michele. This house museum was created by 19th-century Swedish writer and physician Axel Munthe and offers one of the island's most panoramic views.
In and Around the Piazzetta
Next, take a bus back down to Capri and stop for a coffee or a refreshing drink at the bustling Piazzetta.
After your break, stroll down Via Camerelle, famous for its luxury shops and designer fashion boutiques. Continue along Via Tragara to reach a scenic overlook facing the Faraglioni rock formations. Snap a few photos before retracing your steps back to Via Camerelle. Instead of continuing on Via Camerelle, take the road uphill on the right (Via Padre Reginaldo Giuliano) until you come out on Via Fuorlovaldo and Via Le Botteghe.
Return to the Port
Once back in the Piazzetta, descend to the port by funicular train and catch a hydrofoil back to the mainland.
Useful Information for Your Capri Day Trip
How much time do you need to see Capri's highlights?
To get a quick glimpse of the Piazzetta and Anacapri, you'll need at least 4 hours. For a more in-depth experience, including a boat tour around the island, plan for at least 7 hours. To fully explore all the sights and monuments on the island, allocate at least three days.
Do you need to book ferry tickets in advance?
While you can purchase ferry tickets directly at the port if there are still tickets available, it's a good idea to book in advance during the busy summer months of July and August and on weekends. This is especially true for the return ferries from Capri to the mainland in the afternoon, which tend to sell out.
When is the best time of the year to visit Capri?
The ideal months to visit Capri are April and May, as well as September through early October. If you're planning a day trip during the summer, consider staying overnight to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the island's attractions.