Capri island is not only one of the most picturesque destinations in the Italian riviera, but it has also been the favorite destination for the rich and famous throughout history.
One cannot visit Capri without falling in love with the landscape, luxurious restaurants, and hotels, and the vibe this island has. There’s no wonder why celebrities choose to spend their vacations in Capri and even have their favorite restaurants.
That’s why going on a day trip to Capri from Positano or anywhere else on the Amalfi Coast should be on anyone’s bucket list.
With the help of Stefanie, I’ll help you plan your perfect trip to Capri, no matter if you are visiting for one day or planning to spend more time on the charming island.
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Everything you must know for your day trip to Capri
Is a day trip to Capri worth it?
Emperor Augustus discovered the jaw-dropping island off the coast of Amalfi and fell so much for it that he built his own hidden paradise here. Fast forward to some thousands of years later, nowadays, celebrities from all over the world anchor their yachts in the Marina Grande.
If you’re not passionate about shopping, it is worth visiting Capri only for the delicious cuisine and breathtaking natural beauty.
To answer your question, yes, when you have at least 5 days or 7 days to spend on the Amalfi Coast, you should definitely squeeze in at least one day in Capri.
How to get to Capri?
There are several options depending on the starting point you leave from, your budget, and the privacy you want to have during your trip.
Getting to Capri by boat
If you are visiting the Amalfi Coast for a special occasion (your honeymoon for example), you might want to hire a private boat that will get you to Capri island.
This is by far the most memorable way of doing a one-day Capri trip. Since you will have the whole day organized based on your preferences, and you will be the only one on the boat, you should expect a high price. However, this can also be maximized when you travel in a small group with your family or friends and get to split the cost.
When you choose to see Capri like this, on a private tour, you know this will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The tour takes up to 8 hours and you will have 4 hours to explore the island, and another 4 hours on the sea, making the maximum out of your luxury boat and the Italian coast.
Another great thing is that you can discuss the starting point on the Amalfi Coast.
Book your private Capri boat trip here!
Book your small group private tour (up to 8 persons) here!
Getting to Capri by organized tour
If you are looking for a more affordable organized day trip option, there are plenty of tours to choose from.
My go-to site for organized tours is always GetYourGuide. They are trusted by tens of thousands of travelers and have a pretty cool cancellation policy.
This day trip leaves from Naples and includes all the transfers, the boat ride to and from Capri, free time on the island so that you can visit the most important attractions, and a tour around the island by boat. See more here!
If you prefer to leave from Sorrento instead, this exclusive tour will take you to the island, around it, to the Blue Grotto, and you will also have free time to go snorkeling. See more here!
Of course, there is also the option of going to Capri from Positano on a day trip.
All 3 options are more affordable than the private tour, and you will have a chance to make friends with other tourists.
Getting to Capri by ferry
This is the cheapest option when it comes to transportation, but it only includes the boat transfer and you will have to organize all the rest.
That’s how my friend Stefanie chose to travel from Naples to Capri. The ride took 40 minutes and the price of a one-way ticket is 17 EUR.
I suggest you book your ticket in advance, especially when you travel during the peak season – you don’t want to risk getting to the post and not finding a ticket.
Other ferries linking the coast to Capri island are leaving from Positano, Sorrento, or Amalfi.
Check out ferry schedules and prices here!
How to get around Capri Island?
The ferry or the boat will leave you in Marina Grande, one of the most important tourist attractions on the island.
From there, you can choose to travel around the island by taxi, or by public transportation (bus).
Distances are not extremely big and you will find it easy and cost-efficient to get around by bus – the price of a ticket is 2 EUR, while a taxi ride can be anywhere between 15 and 20 EUR depending on the distance and your negotiating skills.
The bus links all of the most important attractions on the island, and you will also walk a lot between some of these.
Discover Cars It is a great aggregator that will help you find and book the best option for renting a car during your trip, helping you save up to 70% on your car rental. They have a pretty good Cancellation policy that would give you options in case your flight or travel plans change. You will most probably need a car to get to most of these places, especially if you want to keep a schedule. Get your best offers here!
How much time to spend on the island?
Capri is a vibe and no matter how much time you spend on the island you cannot get enough.
On top of that, some of the activities worth having on the island are influenced by the weather conditions and wind, and you might not get to do everything you plan to in only one day.
After spending there a few days, Stefanie would recommend a minimum of 4 nights on Capri Island, if you want to make the best out of your holiday and get to return to some of the places you loved most.
That being said, on a day trip to Capri you can scratch the surface and allow yourself to fall in love with the island.
Where would be the best place to stay in Capri?
When you choose to stay more than just one day in Capri, by far the best area you will want to stay in is Anacapri.
From here it will be easy to get to all of the important attractions on the island, and you will be close to the main restaurants and bars. Moreover, shopping lovers will love it here, because they will also be within walking distance of some of the coolest and authentic shops – no matter if you are looking for souvenirs to bring back home or something just for you.
On her time on the island, Stefanie chose to stay in 2 hotels in Anacapri, and she would highly recommend both of them:
Hotel San Michele – offers one of the most breathtaking views from its terrace, but also from some of the rooms. Here you will have access to a great pool, and delicious breakfast. On top of that, they offer transfer from the port to the hotel. See more here!
Villa Ceselle – located in a traditional Italian villa, with a stunning garden and a jacuzzi on the terrace. You will be 10 minutes away from the main shopping area. See more here!
Read also: Stunning and affordable hotels on the Amalfi Coast!
Where to go and what to do in one day in Capri?
If you only have one day in Capri, and you are coming on an organized tour, you will have the chance to split the day into two: 4 hours on the island for free exploration, and another 4 hours on the sea, sailing around the island.
As soon as you set foot in Marina Grande, head directly to the chairlift that leaves from Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri, which will take you to the top of the Solaro Mount.
You will be welcomed by a breathtaking view in the 12-minute ride!
The price of a one-way ticket is 9 EUR and you can walk back or choose to buy a round-trip ticket that will set you back 12 EUR.
Head back to the center of Anacapri and explore every corner of this stunning small and vibrant island city. It is always a pleasure to wander around on the narrow streets and let your feet guide you without a purpose.
Stop for a drink at a bar or restaurant in the Piazzetta, or head to Villa San Michele for a drink with a view.
Where to eat in Capri?
While there are small chances you will go wrong with any restaurant or taverna in Capri, here are 3 of Stefanie’s recommendations worth trying:
Cuccurullo Aldo – the best sandwich in Italy! You can choose anything that you find appealing from the restaurant’s shop, and the owner prepares the sandwich in front of you.
Lo Sfizio – some of the most delicious Italian food. Make sure to book a table in advance if you want to have dinner here!
Tereazza Brunella – a stunning place with an unforgettable view. Come here for a special occasion, since the prices are relatively high, but it is totally worth it!
When is the best time to go on a day trip to Capri?
While Stefanie has visited Capri Island in August, she did not find it terribly crowded, but you must take into consideration the fact that she was there in 2021. Usually, the peak season (especially July and August) gets packed with tourists, prices skyrocket, and it gets hard to book trips and other activities.
The best time for visiting the Amalfi Coast and for going on a day trip to Capri would be the months of May and September. That’s what the locals recommend, and that’s when temperatures are best for wandering around.
Extra tips for planning the perfect day trip to Capri
If you are considering renting a scooter and getting around the island on 2 wheels, you might want to carefully evaluate your skills. Traffic in Italy can get intense, especially on the narrow and steep streets in Capri.
When looking for a hotel to book in Italy, it is worth knowing that 3* hotels could be below your expectations. It is better to look or villas or B&Bs hosted by locals because these will always offer much better quality services.
If you are planning to go on a boat trip from Capri to the Blue Grotto, always ask about the weather conditions and if the wind is not too strong. The trip is a must-do when in Capri, but the weather and wind situation are important factors that might stop you from ticking it off your bucket list.
When you spend more time on the island and want to catch some sun at the beach, wake up early and head to the beach before the crowds if you want to have a good spot.
Other Amalfi Coast travel resources
Where to stay in Positano – the ultimate guide
Amalfi Coast vs Santorini – a comprehensive comparison
Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast: which one is better?
How to get from Rome to the Amalfi Coast – a complete guide!
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