Capri holidays

How to reach Capri Town

• Flight time: While there are no direct flights to Capri Town itself, flights to Naples International Airport from Ireland generally take around 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Naples serves as the main gateway to reach Capri.

• Transfer time: After landing in Naples, a short 15- to 20-minute taxi or bus ride takes you to the port of Naples, where you can catch a ferry or hydrofoil to Capri. The ferry ride from Naples to Capri takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the service you choose. From Capri's Marina Grande, it's just a quick bus or taxi ride to Capri Town, located in the heart of the island.

• Price: A bus from Naples Airport to the port costs around €5, while a taxi can be closer to €20. Ferries to Capri range from €20 to €30 per person. In peak season, the ferry services can get busy, so it's advisable to arrive at the port early to secure your tickets.

Best time to visit Capri Town

The best time to visit Capri Town depends on your travel preferences, whether you're looking for a lively, bustling atmosphere or a more tranquil escape.

• April to June: This is an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with pleasant temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Capri Town is blooming, and the weather is perfect for wandering its charming streets and enjoying the island's famous gardens.

• July to August: If you love the summer heat and the buzz of the high season, this is the time to visit. Temperatures often reach 30°C, making it ideal for beachgoers. However, Capri Town can get crowded, and accommodation prices tend to rise.

• September to November: As the crowds begin to thin, the weather remains mild, with temperatures cooling from 25°C in September to 15°C by November. This is a great time for exploring Capri Town's landmarks without the high-season rush.

• December to March: The winter months bring fewer tourists, making this a peaceful time to visit. Temperatures hover between 10°C and 15°C, and although rain is more common, Capri Town still retains its charm, offering a quiet, authentic experience.

Practical information for Capri Town

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, though many people in Capri Town speak English, especially in tourist areas.

• Local customs: Capri Town is known for its relaxed lifestyle. Take part in the local tradition of aperitivo—enjoying a pre-dinner drink and snacks at one of the town's charming cafés. When visiting churches, be respectful with attire, and greet locals with a friendly "buongiorno" when passing by.

• Currency: The Euro (€) is used throughout Capri Town. While credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops and cafés.

• Getting around: Capri Town is best explored on foot, though taxis and buses are available to reach other parts of the island. The local bus service is efficient, with tickets costing around €2.40 for a single journey. Electric bikes and scooters are also available for rent if you prefer a more unique way to explore.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses 220V electricity, with type C, F, and L plugs. Irish travellers will need a plug adaptor for their devices.

• Time zone: Capri operates on Central European Time, 1 hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Capri Town

Capri Town, located on the island of Capri, is known for its breathtaking views, historical monuments, and charming streets. Here's a guide to the top experiences on your holidays to Capri Town:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mount Solaro: Take the chairlift from Anacapri to the island's highest point, offering spectacular views over Capri Town, the Bay of Naples, and the Italian mainland.

• Belvedere di Tragara: Just a 15-minute walk from Piazza Umberto, this panoramic terrace provides unbeatable views of the famous Faraglioni rock formations.

• Giardini di Augusto (Gardens of Augustus): These botanical gardens offer stunning vistas of the Faraglioni and the winding Via Krupp, perfect for a peaceful retreat in the heart of Capri Town.

The best districts

• Capri Town: The main hub of the island, filled with boutique shops, lively piazzas, and cafés. The Piazzetta is a prime spot for coffee and people-watching.

• Anacapri: A quieter district higher up the island, Anacapri features historic sites, artisanal shops, and offers a more laid-back atmosphere than Capri Town.

Historical monuments

• Villa Jovis (Villa of Jupiter): The ruins of Emperor Tiberius' 1st-century palace provide a fascinating look at Roman history and stunning coastal views.

• Certosa di San Giacomo: One of the oldest buildings on the island, this 14th-century monastery now houses a museum and library.

• Casa Rossa: Located in Anacapri, this striking red house contains Roman statues discovered in the Blue Grotto, along with other fascinating artefacts.

Day trips in the area

• Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto): Famous for its iridescent blue waters, this sea cave can be visited by boat from Marina Grande.

• Villa San Michele: A villa in Anacapri with beautiful gardens and panoramic views over Capri Town and the surrounding sea.

• Marina Piccola: A serene bay where you can relax, swim, or enjoy seafood at one of the nearby restaurants.

Activities for families in Capri Town

Capri Town offers plenty of family-friendly activities, ensuring both kids and adults enjoy their stay.

• Boat tours: Take a boat tour around Capri's coastline to explore hidden caves and crystal-clear waters. Many tours include stops for snorkelling.

• Chairlift to Monte Solaro: The thrilling chairlift ride to the top of Monte Solaro is a hit with kids, offering incredible views.

• Exploring the Blue Grotto: Children and adults alike will be mesmerised by the glowing blue waters inside this magical sea cave.

• Beach days: Spend a relaxing day at Marina Piccola or Marina Grande, where kids can enjoy the sandy beaches and calm waters.

Free things to do in Capri Town

Capri Town offers a range of free activities that let you enjoy the island's beauty without spending a fortune.

• Piazzetta di Capri: The main square in Capri Town is perfect for people-watching and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

• Walking the trails: Explore scenic trails like the Pizzolungo Trail and the Path of the Forts, offering panoramic views and access to quieter parts of the island.

• Churches: Visit historic churches such as the Church of Santo Stefano in Capri Town and the Church of San Michele in Anacapri, which are free to enter.

Wellness in Capri Town

• Capri Palace Spa: Located in Anacapri, this luxury spa offers a range of treatments and is renowned for its spectacular views over the sea.

• Thermal baths: Although not on Capri itself, the nearby island of Ischia is famed for its thermal baths, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

• Yoga classes: Capri Town offers outdoor yoga classes, often held on terraces overlooking the sea, making it an ideal spot to unwind amidst nature's beauty.

Local dishes in Capri

Sample fresh seafood, delicious local produce and traditional Italian flavours as you work your way around the island's fantastic restaurants and eateries.

Some typical Capri dishes

• Insalata Caprese: A simple yet delicious salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and olive oil. It's a must-try dish that embodies the flavours of Capri.

• Ravioli Capresi: Handmade ravioli filled with caciotta cheese and marjoram, typically served with a fresh tomato and basil sauce.

• Spaghetti alle Vongole: A classic seafood pasta dish made with spaghetti and fresh clams, cooked with garlic, olive oil, white wine and a sprinkle of parsley.

Meat dishes

• Pollo alla Cacciatora: Chicken cooked with tomatoes, onions, olives and capers – this dish captures the true taste of traditional Italian home cooking.

• Coniglio all'Ischitana: Rabbit stew from nearby Ischia, prepared with tomatoes, garlic, white wine and herbs.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Pezzogna all'acqua Pazza: Red snapper cooked in a light broth of cherry tomatoes, garlic, parsley and white wine – this meal reflects the island's rich fishing tradition.

• Totani e Patate: A comforting dish consisting of calamari and potatoes, often cooked with tomatoes, garlic and parsley.

Street food

• Pizza al Taglio: Great if you need a quick bite while exploring, these slices of pizza are sold by weight.

• Panino Caprese: This sandwich filled with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and basil is a portable version of the iconic insalata caprese.

Sweets and desserts

• Torta Caprese: A rich, moist flourless chocolate and almond cake that goes perfectly with a cup of coffee.

• Delizie al Limone: Lemon sponge filled with lemon cream and topped with a sweet lemon glaze, these zesty cakes reflect the island's love of citrus flavours.

• Gelato: No visit to Italy is complete without indulging in some delicious gelato. Capri's gelaterias offer a huge selection of flavours, from classic chocolate and creamy vanilla to more adventurous options like fig and ricotta.

Local drinks

Capri's drink scene focuses on local wines and traditional liqueurs.

• Limoncello: This zesty lemon liqueur is a must-try. Usually enjoyed as a digestif, it's made from the island's fragrant lemons.

• Capri Bianco: A light and crisp white wine produced on the island – perfect for sipping on a sunny terrace.

• Aperol Spritz: A popular aperitif made with Aperol, prosecco and soda water. Best enjoyed as an evening aperitivo.