Historically the island of Capri, a short boat ride from the Bay of Naples mainland, was a playground of debauchery and a hedonistic escape for the Roman Emperors who built lavish villas high up on the verdant mountain slopes. Today, some centuries later, Capri continues to be an island retreat for the rich and famous bustling with Roman villas, breezy plazas and time-honoured marinas all punctuated by swanky resorts, chic cafés and boutique shops. This is an island of rugged landscapes and perfect blue water where VIPs come for the tranquillity and anonymity and vacationers come for celebrity spotting, vibrant festivals and the unique island atmosphere.
Capri is not swarming with tourist sights, although as most come to enjoy the sun soaked pebble beaches this is by no means off putting. Two must-sees however sit at opposite ends of the island, La Gotta Azzurra on the west coast and Tiberius’s Villa Jovis high up on the east coasts MountTiberio. The island is then split into two main districts, Anacapri and CapriTown. Anacarpi is the quieter of the neighborhoods yet home to two fine beach clubs, Lido del Faro and Club Nettuno, the latter just a short hop from Grotta Azzurra. Over in CapriTown things are livelier given that it is home to the islands main port Marina Grande. This is the islands beating heart, home to the top restaurants, hotels and nightlife concealed amongst the medieval streets. On the south side of CapriTown is Marina Piccola, the setting for the most frequented beach and Bagni Internazionali club boasting sun drenched terraces, private beach and the best swimming spot.
As an island the only way is by boat or ferry with services running at frequent intervals from both Naples and Sorrento to Marina Grande. From Capri there are also an abundance of opportunities to visit Pompeii, Positano and Vesuvius, that is of course only for those able to tear themselves away from the stunning rugged landscapes and enticing waters of the Mediterranean. La Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) - On the north western tip of the island is Capri’s magical and most famous sight, a stunning cave 60m long and 25m wide and illuminated by a mystical blue light caused by a combination of the suns reflection and the caves sandy bottom. The cave is entered via a narrow opening, accessible only by row boat, to reveal the phenomenon once used as a Roman bath. Swimming is prohibited, however the singing oarsmen make for an enchanting visit to this natural wonder.
Villa Jovis - An hour walk along Via Tiberio and 350m up MountTiberio is the islands largest and most significant Roman Villa spread across an area of 7000m sq. Originally built as a fortress and residence of Emperor Tiberius, today the villa is largely in ruins yet provides an interesting insight into the lavish lifestyle lived by the emperor. The walk is worth it for the marvellous views of Punta Campanella.
Giardini di Augusto - Founded by Emperor Augustus, these picturesque gardens are a short walk from Via Krupp and the Piazzetta offering wonderful views down to Isole Faraglioni. Next to the gardens sits Certosa de San Giacomo the Carthusian Monastery founded in 1371.
Monte Solaro - At 589m MountSolaro is the islands tallest peak and reachable on foot via a path leading from Viale Axel Munthe or on the chairlift running from Piazza Vittoria. The walk down from the summit is arguably the most picturesque spectacle on the island allowing walkers to take in views of Anacapri, the gulf of Naples and the SorrentoPeninsula. The route also passes Cetrella, home to the tranquil Church of Santa Maria.
Marina Piccola - Commanding a perfect location at the southern end of the island the Bay of Piccola is home to pebbled beaches, swimming areas and a serene central plaza and port. The beaches here are the most fashionable on the island boasting stylish beach clubs and excellent seafood restaurants. The bay is a short taxi ride from the Piazzetta or a pleasant walk via either of Via Mulo and Via Krupp. In the summer boat trips make their way out to the Faraglioni Rocks.
Capri Film Festival - Held in December, Capri Hollywood attracts independent Italian filmmakers and Hollywood stars for a celebration of cinema.
Capri Nightlife
Al Piccolo - Laidback café bar and the pioneer of nightlife in La Piazzetta.
Anema e Cora - In the heart of CapriTown is a local bar where tourists can rub shoulders with the rich and famous.
O Guarracino - Lively taverna and music venue where you might spot the odd celebrity.