Capri

Capri lies about 15 km west of Sorrento across the Bay of Naples, in the Campania region of Italy, and is reached by a 20-30 minute ferry or hydrofoil from Marina Piccola. Operators including Caremar, NLG, Gescab/Alilauro and Snav run the crossing, with one-way fares of roughly EUR 21.40-28 including the landing fee. Sea transport is the only sensible mode, and the return sailing time should be confirmed before leaving the port, because the last boats depart in the evening and the island has few affordable late options. The ferry lands at Marina Grande, where the funicular (about EUR 2.40 a ride) climbs to the Piazzetta in Capri town. The funicular is replaced by buses between January and Easter. A sensible one-day arc starts with the earliest practical sailing, about 07:15-08:30, so the main sights are seen before the day-trip crowds arrive. The morning can be spent in Capri town: the Piazzetta, the Gardens of Augustus with their view over the Faraglioni rock stacks, and the Via Krupp hairpin path. Mid-day, a bus to Anacapri (EUR 2.40-3) reaches Villa San Michele and the chairlift to Monte Solaro, the island's high point. The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) is reached by small boat from Marina Grande or by bus to Anacapri; one 2026 guide reports about EUR 18 entry paid in cash to the rowers in addition to the boat, and the grotto closes in rough seas, so it cannot be relied on. The best season is May-June and September to early October. July and August are very crowded, and many businesses close from November to Easter. Food stops are plentiful but pricey in the Piazzetta; visitors often eat in the side streets of Capri town or in Anacapri, where prices are lower, and pack a picnic for the walking sections. Anacapri is quieter than Capri town and suits the afternoon. Visitors who want a swim can use the lidos at Marina Piccola on the south side. The total cost for the ferry return, funicular and buses is about EUR 55-70 before entries and meals. Departing for the return sailing about 90 minutes early leaves a buffer for the funicular queue at Marina Grande.