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Spend One Unforgettable Day in Capri

If you only have one day on your travel itinerary for Capri, we give you the eight things that will turn one ordinary day into one idyllic day. And the bonus is that you can either take the affordable budget-friendly options or opt for the more expensive treats. Capri is for everyone’s pocket!

A visit to Capri will no doubt be one of those unforgettable memories that will linger for a lifetime. It’s known for its spectacular scenery, picturesque high-end shopping streets (so yeah, it’s expensive!), and lemons.

Visit Capri Map Italy min
Visit Capri Day itinerary travel guide Italy best things to do in Capri

the island of a thousand faces

If you’re dreaming of a holiday where you can

  • walk the trails skirting the cliffs,
  • swim in crystalline waters,
  • experience jaw-dropping natural beauty, and
  • meander in and out of the most fashionable boutiques in the world,

Capri should be your next summer holiday destination. 

CAPRI WEATHER

6 things to do in one day in Capri

1. Faraglioni

Boat Trip Capri min

The dramatic Faraglioni (pronounced [faraʎˈʎoːni]; Neapolitan: faragliune [faraʝˈʝuːnə]; singular faraglione in both languages) is Capri’s most iconic sight. These three towering rock formations have been created by millions of years of erosion. It is believed that these rocks once were caves and archways. However, these days they’re completely cut off from the mainland. 

2. Blue Grotto Caves

Italy and the Amalfi Coast Tours to Blue Grotto in Capri

Depending on the time of day, the wait to enter the Blue Grotto cave can be long. We waited for just over an hour. While the visit inside the grotto lasts about five minutes, it is still worth the effort.

Travel Tip(s)

Before going to the Blue Grotto, make sure your trip is during the low tides. This link will give you all the tide times, as well as many other weather tips such as wind speed, temperature, humidity, and visibility. 

If you plan to stay for more than one day in Capri and want to include a fishing trip, the same link will give you the latest on the fishing conditions.

3. Gelato

For the very best ice cream in Capri, head on over to Buonocore Gelateria Pasticceria Gastronomia e Tavola Calda on 35 Via Vittorio Emanuele.

They’re not only known for the best gelato in Capri but also claim a spot in one of the five best ice cream shops in the Mediterranean.

By the way, the other best ice cream shops in the Mediterranean are:

  • Cacao Sampaka in Barcelona, Spain
  • Gelateria del Teatro in 
    Rome, Italy – near Piazza Navona
  • Venchi in Florence, Italy
  • Fenocchio in Nice, France

Travel Tip(s)

Look for free cancellation options: Some hotels offer free cancellation up until a certain date. Booking accommodations with free cancellation can provide flexibility in case your plans change.

Check the map view: Booking.com has a map view feature that shows the location of hotels. This can help you identify accommodations in areas that are both desirable and affordable.

Capri is famous for its glitzy white convertible taxis but beware: Ask the price before you get inside because although beautiful, they can be quite expensive.

4. Shopping

What to buy in Capri

Whether you are looking to buy souvenirs, fashionable clothing, handicrafts or shoes you will find the best Capri shopping in the triangle from the Piazzetta to Via Camerelle and Via Le Botteghe.

Shopping in this exquisite triangle can keep you busy for days on end. However, when you’re pushed for time, these are the items you want to leave with:

  • Limoncello Liqueur

    It’s unclear whether this tasty lemon liqueur was invented in Sicily 100 years ago, or on one of the several villages and islands on the Amalfi coast. But who cares? After all these years it still is one of Italy’s most popular liqueurs. You’ll find them around every corner and in all different shapes and forms. Even if you do not consume alcoholic drinks, they make for great gifts or memorable souvenirs.

Travel Tip(s)

Rather than doing expensive shopping in Capri itself, opt to shop in Anacapri: This colorful town is less crowded.

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  • Capri bells from Capri Bell

    The traditional handcrafted Capri bells (you can also order from their website if you run out of time) are considered a very precious lucky charm. 

    It is believed that Saint Michael offered the first bell to a young shepherd telling the youngster: “My son, take this bell and follow its sound; it will protect you from harm”.

    There are more narratives about the legendary Capri Bell, but I won’t tell them all. That’s like telling your friend how the movie will end, right?

5. Inexpensive and Expensive Views

Budget-Friendly Gardens of Augustus

When you feel Capri is getting a bit crowded, escape to the Gardens of Augustus and rest on the beautifully tiled benches in the shade of the magnificent trees. It’s also one of the least expensive ways to enjoy the views from Capri and a great choice for families.

Gardens of Augustus Capri Island Italy scenic views min

Starting from the main Piazzetta square, just head down Via Vittorio Emanuele until you reach Via Federico Serena. Then, take a turn onto Via Matteotti, and you’ll find the entrance to the Gardens of Augustus. Exploring these gardens can be as quick or as leisurely as you like. It’s a short 10-minute walk from the heart of Capri, and you’re free to spend as much time here as you wish. However, since you’ve got a lot more to see in just 24 hours, I’d recommend you keep the pace up and continue exploring.

“The garden is quite small, but the views must be among the best in the world, or at least this is how it makes you feel. It is a very tranquil place and well worth the 1.5 euros. A must see and do.” – July 29, 2022 – Stephen G on TripAdvisor

“Nice place to see some of the beautiful landscape Capri has to offer. It does not take a long time to visit the whole place, but if you want some nice pictures, they can be taken here. From the gardens, you can also see down on the hundreds of boats and ships which have anchored close to the island.” – July 24, 2022 – Martin on TripAdvisor

The more expensive alternative: Take the chairlift to the summit of Monte Solaro

To reach Monte Solaro effortlessly, hop on the chairlift, which offers a quick 12-minute journey to the top of Capri’s mountain 589 meters above sea level. You can catch the chairlift from Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri. If you’re arriving by bus from Capri, just alight when you hear the driver announce “Anacapri” and head towards the steps across from the stop.

Travel Tip(s)

Do you suffer from Vertigo? Are you scared of heights?

You’ll be okay! The chairlift to Monte Solaro moves steadily and slowly, offering a smooth ride. With the distance between the seats and the ground below being less than 20 meters, it’s a comfortable experience without any significant height-related concerns. So, you can relax and enjoy the scenic journey up to the summit with ease.

Adventure in Capri: Hiking Monte Solaro

Another alternative is to hike to the summit of Monte Solaro. Plan for an early morning or sunset walk from Piazza Vittoria (departure point), lasting between 60 to 90 minutes. Have your camera ready, your water bottle filled and wear comfy shoes.

Locals often dub Monte Solaro the “Acchiappanuvole,” or “cloud catcher,” owing to the thick fog enveloping the summit, especially at dawn. The contrast between the warm sea air and cooler ground causes condensation, forming a dense mist. It happens more frequently in autumn.

6. Limoncello Tasting

Nothing beats the locals when it comes to making their zesty Limoncello.  The most authentic Limoncello is Limoncello di Capri. Limoncello di Capri comes from the stunning “lemon groves on the slopes of the Sorrento peninsula and the island of Capri, descending towards the sea.”

That’s the one to taste and take back home (check out our travel tip)!

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Travel Tip(s)

The best place to find local products in Capri – Via Roma, 79.

majolica tiles in Capri, Anacapri, amalfi coast

7. Snap the "Majolica Tiles"

Keep an eye out for the most beautiful iconic “majolica tiles”. Although these colorful tiles can be seen everywhere on the Amalfi coast in the squares, and buildings, you get some of the most stunning “majolica tiles” in Capri, like in Anacapri’s Church of San Michele. Its exquisite floor shows paradise on earth in a classic 18th-century Neopolitan style. 

8. End the day at the best sunset restaurant in Capri

At restaurant Giorgio al Cucciolo (Address: Via La Fabbrica, 52, 80071 Anacapri) you’ll enjoy an unforgettable experience no matter when you visit. With its breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples, delightful cuisine, and excellent service, it’s always a treat. But wait for it…, sunset casts an especially magical ambiance over the restaurant. While it’s true that dining here can be on the pricier side, the waiter’s expert recommendations on wine and food truly enhance the experience. To ensure you secure a table, it’s wise to make a reservation in advance; I’ve seen walk-ins who were quite disappointed for not getting a table.

Image Sourced from restaurant Giorgio al Cucciolo
Giorgio al Cucciolo