How To Spend One Day in Capri, Italy: A Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

Published: July 6, 2025

The island of Capri, located just off Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast, is known for its stunning scenery, coastal charm and iconic views. Located just 25 miles from Sorrento, Capri is an easy day trip from the Amalfi Coast and Naples. And with a little smart planning, it’s absolutely possible to experience the best of Capri in just one day.

Here’s your perfect one-day itinerary in Capri, including what to see, where to eat, how to get around and optional experiences to make the most of your visit.

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Morning: Arrive Early By Ferry or Boat Tour

Capri can only be reached by boat, and you have two main options: a guided boat tour or a public ferry. Deciding which one to take will depend on what you want out of your day in Capri.

Option 1: Boat Tour From the Amalfi Coast

Boat tours (departing from Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Naples) are a scenic and stress-free way to visit Capri. These small-group or private tours offer the complete Capri experience, with stops at iconic sights ike the Blue Grotto, the dramatic Faraglioni rock formations, and even a chance to swim or explore hidden sea caves along the coast. After a full circle of the island by sea, you’ll typically get about 3 hours of free time on land to explore Capri at your own pace before heading back. Capri is a small island, so 3 hours is enough time to see the highlights like the chairlift on Monte Solaro, Anacapri and the Gardens of Augustus.

How Long Is The Boat Tour To Capri?

Sorrento to Capri: 20-25 minutes

Positano to Capri: 30-40 minutes

Amalfi to Capri: 50-60 minutes

Naples to Capri: 45-60 minutes

The boat tours to Capri arrive at Marina Piccola, the island’s smaller, quieter port on the southern coast. Unlike the busy Marina Grande, Marina Piccola is much less crowded and makes it easy to hop in taxi or bus to reach Capri Town or Anacapri without the long lines.

We took a small group boat tour from Sorrento to Capri and we absolutely loved it. Click here to check out our boat tour.

Option 2: Ferry to Capri

Where the boat tours give you the scenic experience with swim stops and grotto visits, the ferry to Capri is all about getting you from point A to point B as efficiently as possible. You won’t get up-close photo ops at the Faraglioni rocks or explore sea caves along the way–but you will have more time on the island to explore at your own pace.

Ferries arrive at Marina Grande, Capri’s busy main port. From here, you’ll need to make your way uphill to Capri Town or across the island to Anacapri. The easiest way is by funicular, a small train that for €2, takes you up the steep hill from the marina to Capri Town in about 4 minutes. During peak hours, you can expect long lines and crowds for the funicular. Taxis and buses are also available, but waits can be long from this marina in summer. If you’re planning to explore more of the island and prefer the flexibility of choosing your own return time, ferries are a great option, even with the long lines at Marina Grande. You can always book a short boat tour around the island once you arrive in Marina Grande.

Book ferry tickets in advance at Ferryhopper.com and try to catch a morning ferry before 9:00 am for a full day on the island.

How Long Is The Ferry Ride To Capri?

Here are the approximate one-way travel times using the high-speed ferry (hydrofoil):
Sorrento to Capri: 20 minutes
Positano to Capri: 30-40 minutes
Amalfi to Capri: 50-60 minutes
Naples to Capri: 45-60 minutes

Note: High-Speed ferries are most common in the summer. While standard ferries may take longer, they offer a smoother ride in choppy conditions.

Travel Tip: For the best views, sit on the right side of the ferry (when facing the front).

🚤 Boat Tour vs Ferry: Quick Comparison

Feature	Boat Tour	Ferry
Scenic stops (Blue Grotto, sea caves, Faraglioni)	✅ Yes	❌ No
Drop-off Port	✅ Marina Piccola (less crowded)	❌ Marina Grande (main, busy port)
Time on Capri	❌ 3 hours	✅ As long as you want
Swim stops	✅ Often included	❌ No
Transportation From Marina	✅ Easier access to taxis or walking	❌ Funicular (can have long lines)
Booking	In advance (high demand)	Recommended via Ferryhopper

The Blue Grotto: Capri’s Most Magical Spot

The Blue Grotto (Grotto Azzurra) is one of Capri’s most iconic sights–and while the visit is short, it’s definitely memorable!

What Is the Blue Grotto?

The Blue Grotto is one of Capri’s most iconic sights. This natural sea cave is famous for its glowing, electric-blue water — an effect caused by sunlight bouncing through an underwater opening and reflecting off the white sandy floor. Once inside, the light-filled chamber feels straight out of a dream.

You’ll board a small rowboat and lie back to duck under a low, narrow entrance. The ride inside lasts just about five minutes, but the surreal beauty makes it one of those “only in Capri” moments.

How to Visit the Blue Grotto

Many boat tours from the Amalfi Coast to Capri include a stop at the Blue Grotto, but not all do. If visiting the Grotto is a priority for you, be sure to double check the itinerary before booking–or choose one of the recommended tours below which specifically include it.

If you are traveling by ferry, there are two main ways to see the Blue Grotto from the island of Capri :

🚤 Take a small boat tour from Capri’s Marina Grande. .
🚌 Head to Anacapri by bus or taxi, then walk down to the grotto’s entrance where you can board a rowboat from the shore.

Important Tips

Weather matters. The grotto is tide and sea-condition dependent. If the seas are rough or the tides are high, it may be closed.
Go early! Lines can be hours-long by mid-morning, especially in summer.
It’s optional. Not all boat tours stop at the Blue Grotto. Some skip it due to long lines, so check in advance if it’s a priority for you
The entrance fee to the Blue Grotto is €18 per person and must be paid in cash. This is in addition to the cost of a boat tour.

Boat Travelers: What To Do If You Have 3 Hours On Capri

If you’re arriving to Capri on a boat tour, you’ll likely have about 3 hours to explore the island before returning back to your boat. To make the most of your limited time, it’s best to choose one of these two mini itineraries. Each of these options offer a different way to soak in the beauty of Capri without feeling rushed.

⚠️ Important Notes:

If you only have 3 hours on Capri, I highly recommend taxing taxis and avoiding the buses on the island. While the buses are a cheaper option, you will waste precious time waiting in the long bus lines.
Taxis only pick up and drop off at designated taxi stations throughout the island.

Boat Traveler Option 1: Anacapri & Chairlift to Monte Solaro

After arriving at Marina Piccola, take a taxi to Anacapri, the quieter, more authentic side of the island. While Capri Town gets most of the attention (and the crowds), Anacapri offers a slower pace, charming streets and stunning views.

This is where you’ll find the chairlift to Monte Solaro, the highest part of Capri. Sitting at 1,932 feet above sea level, Monte Solaro offers absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the island, the Faraglioni rocks, the Bay of Naples and even the Amalfi Coast on a clear day.

The scenic ride costs €14 roundtrip, and takes about 12 minutes to reach the top, allowing plenty of time to soak up all of the gorgeous views along the way.

Option 1 Anacapri Mini Itinerary:

Take a taxi from Marina Piccola to Anacapri
Taxi will drop you off in Piazza Vittoria, the main square of Anacapri.
The chairlift is located in the Piazza Vittoria
Take the chairlift to Monte Solaro
At the top : a small cafe, panoramic terrace and walking paths with incredible photo opportunities.
Take chairlift back down to Anacapri
Follow signs from Piazza Vittoria to walk to Villa San Michele, a historic villa with lush gardens and panoramic terraces overlooking the sea
Explore shops in Anacapri (Sandal shopping is a must!)
Grab a taxi back to Marina Piccola to meet your boat

Check out my TikTok video of the chairlift!

@postcardsfromcarrie Would you ride this chairlift to Monte Solaro in Capri, Italy? The lift takes you to the highest point in the island with 360 degree views. It is a 13 minute ride and costs 14 Euros roundtrip. A must do experience when visiting the island of Capri! #capri #capriitaly #italy #italy🇮🇹 #italytiktok #montesolaro #anacapri #chairlift #views #scenery #heights #island #traveltiktok #explorepage #explore #adventure #bucketlist #anniversarytrip ♬ original sound - Postcards From Carrie | Travel

Boat Traveler Option 2: Capri Town & Gardens of Augustus

Capri Town is the heart of the island, lively and full of charm. It’s where you’ll find the famous Piazzetta, a square lined with cafes and designer boutiques. Just a 5-10 minute walk from the Piazzetta is one of Capri’s most photogenic spots: the Garden of Augustus.

The Gardens of Augustus

The Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto) are beautifully landscaped terraces overlooking some Capri’s most iconic sights. From here you’ll get jaw-dropping views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the Via Krupp, a winding stone pathway carved into the cliffside. The entrance fee is €1.50 and you should allow yourself 15-20 minutes to explore the Gardens.

Belvedere Punta Cannone

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and find a peaceful spot with breathtaking views of Capri’s coastline, Belvedere Punta Cannone is a hidden gem worth visiting. Located just a short walk from the Gardens of Augustus, this panoramic terrace offers stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks, the Villa Krupp and the Bay of Naples.

Option 2 Capri Town Mini Itinerary:

Take a taxi from Marina Piccola to Capri Town
Explore the shops of the Piazzetta, just steps from the taxi drop off
Walk to the Gardens of Augustus for epic views of the Faraglioni rocks and Via Krupp
Continue on foot to the Belvedere Punta Cannone for another panoramic viewpoint
Head back to the Piazzetta and enjoy lunch, drinks or gelato at one of their open air cafes
Take a taxi back to Marina Piccola to meet your boat

Can You Do Both Capri Town and Anacapri in 3 Hours?

It is possible to visit both Capri Town and Anacapri in 3 hours, but only if you move efficiently and don’t linger too long in either spot. The key factor is the line for the chairlift in Anacapri. If it’s short, you can squeeze both into your limited time. It will feel rushed, but if you’re eager to see both areas, here’s a quick-hit itinerary that works:

Option 3 Anacapri & Capri Town Mini Itinerary:

0:00-0:20 Take a taxi from Marina Piccola to Anacapri
0:20-0:30 Buy chairlift ticket and board the chairlift to Monte Solaro
0:30-0:42 Chairlift ride to Monte Solaro
0:42-1:10 Enjoy the views & photos on Monte Solaro
1:10-1:22 Chairlift ride back down
1:22-1:45 Quick bite to go from either Capri Creperie or Bar Grotto Azzurra (both right near the chairlift in Anacapri
1:45-2:05 Take taxi to Capri Town
2:05-2:15 Walk to the Gardens of Augustus
2:15-2:35 Explore the Gardens and enjoy the views
2:35-3:00 Either:
- Walk down Via Krupp back to Marina Piccola or
- Walk back to Capri Town and take a taxi to Marina Piccola

⚠️ Important Notes:

This itinerary does not allow time for a sit down meal. Since most boat tours don’t provide lunch, it is crucial that you grab food to go after your chairlift ride so you’re not hungry mid-tour.
If you encounter a long line for the chairlift or have trouble finding a taxi quickly, it is important to re-evaluate your timeline. Be ready to skip either Monte Solaro or Capri Town to ensure you’re back at Marina Piccola on time to meet your boat. Prioritize based on what is most important to you.

My personal recommendation? If you have to choose, don’t miss Monte Solaro. The chairlift ride itself, along with the stunning panoramic views from the top are truly unforgettable and were the highlight of our visit.

Can You Do Both Capri Town and Anacapri in 3 Hours?

It is possible to visit both Capri Town and Anacapri in 3 hours, but only if you move efficiently and don’t linger too long at either location. This is only possible if there is not a long line for the chairlift. My advice is to start with the chairlift in Anacapri and make the decision once you are there based on how long the line is. It will be rushed, but if you really want to see both, it can be done by following this itinerary.

Option 3 Mini Itinerary:

0:00-0:20 Take a taxi from Marina Piccola to Anacapri
0:20-0:30 Buy chairlift ticket and board the chairlift to Monte Solaro
0:30-0:42 Ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro
0:42-1:10 Enjoy the views on Monte Solaro and take photos
1:10-1:22 Ride chairlift back down
1:22-1:45 Grab a bite to go from one of these places at Capri Creperie or Bar Grotto Azzurra (both located right near the chairlift)
1:45-2:05 Taxi to Capri Town
2:05-2:15 Walk to Gardens of Augustus
2:15-2:35 Visit the Gardens of Augustus and enjoy the views
2:35-3:00 Walk down Via Krupp back to Marina Piccola or walk back to Capri Town and take a taxi back to Marina Piccola

Note that this itinerary option does not allow time for a sit down meal. Since most boat tours do not provide lunch, it is important that you grab food to eat on the go after you get off of the chairlift.

What to Do With A Full Day in Capri (Ferry Travelers)

If you’re arriving in Capri by ferry, you’ll have enough time to experience the island’s highlights at a more relaxed pace. I’ve put together three full-day itineraries to help you make the most of your visit, each tailored to a different travel style. Whether you want to unwind at a beach club, explore scenic trails and viewpoints, or do a bit of everything, there’s an itinerary below that’s perfect for your day in Capri. Be sure to check out my post on the Best Restaurants in Capri for your full day itinerary.

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☀️ Option 1: The Classic Capri Highlights Day (with Blue Grotto & Coastal Tour)

A well-rounded itinerary combining sea views, village charm, and unforgettable panoramas.

8:00–8:30 AM – Arrive in Capri by ferry
8:30–9:30 AM – Take a boat tour from Marina Grande (includes Blue Grotto, Faraglioni, and coastal highlights)
9:30–10:00 AM – Taxi or funicular up to Capri Town
10:00–10:30 AM – Explore the Gardens of Augustus + Via Krupp overlook
10:30–11:00 AM – Walk to Belvedere Punta Cannone
11:00–12:15 PM – Lunch in Capri Town (Panorama or Pulalli)
12:15–12:45 PM – Taxi to Anacapri
12:45–1:45 PM – Ride the Monte Solaro chairlift and take in the views
1:45–2:30 PM – Visit Villa San Michele
2:30–3:15 PM – Stroll through Anacapri’s charming center and grab a gelato
3:15–4:00 PM – Taxi or bus to Marina Grande
5:00–5:30 PM – Ferry back to mainland

🏖️ Option 2: Beach Club + Capri Town

A luxurious day for travelers who want relaxation with a dash of sightseeing.

8:00–8:30 AM – Arrive in Capri by ferry
8:30–9:30 AM – Optional boat tour around the island (skip Blue Grotto if it’s not a priority)
9:30–10:00 AM – Funicular to Capri Town
10:00–11:00 AM – Explore Gardens of Augustus, Via Krupp overlook, and Punta Cannone
11:00–12:15 PM – Lunch in Capri Town
12:15–12:45 PM – Walk or taxi down to Marina Piccola
12:45–4:00 PM – Spend the afternoon at a beach club (La Fontelina, Da Luigi ai Faraglioni, or Bagni Internazionali)
4:00–4:30 PM – Walk or taxi back to Marina Grande
5:00–5:30 PM – Ferry back to mainland

🌊 Option 3: Blue Grotto by Land + Anacapri Adventure

A great choice for those skipping the boat tour but still wanting to see the Blue Grotto by land route.

8:00–8:30 AM – Arrive in Capri by ferry
8:30–9:00 AM – Taxi or bus straight to Anacapri
9:00–9:15 AM – Take the local transfer down to the Blue Grotto entrance
9:15–10:00 AM – Enter the Blue Grotto by rowboat (get there early to avoid lines)
10:00–10:30 AM – Return to Anacapri
10:30–11:30 AM – Ride the Monte Solaro chairlift
11:30–12:15 PM – Visit Villa San Michele
12:15–1:00 PM – Lunch in Anacapri (try Le Arcate or Sciue Sciue)
1:00–1:30 PM – Taxi to Capri Town
1:30–2:30 PM – Visit the Gardens of Augustus and walk to Belvedere Punta Cannone
2:30–3:15 PM – Explore shops or grab gelato in the Piazzetta
3:15–4:00 PM – Optional walk to the Natural Arch (if time and energy allow)
4:00–4:30 PM – Return to Marina Grande
5:00–5:30 PM – Ferry back

What Time Is The Last Ferry From Capri?

Before planning your full day in Capri, be sure to check the ferry schedule so you don’t miss the last boat! Departure times typically range from 5:30-7:00 pm depending on the season and your return destination (Positano, Sorrento, Naples, etc.)

👉 Click here to view the latest ferry departure times.

Overnight Option: Stay Longer in Capri

While most visitors come to Capri just for the day, spending the night allows you to experience the island in a more peaceful and authentic way. After the last ferries leave, the crowds disappear and you’re left with quiet cobblestone streets, glowing sunsets over the sea, and a chance to enjoy dinner and drinks at a relaxed pace. You’ll also be able to visit popular spots like the Blue Grotto and Monte Solaro first thing in the morning or in late evening without the daytime crowds.

For a memorable stay, consider Capri Wine Hotel (boutique hotel with stunning sea views), Hotel Villa Brunella (romantic boutique hotel with an elegant vibe) or Hotel La Minerva (a charming, family-run favorite in Capri Town). If you want to stay in Anacapri, Casa Mariantonia is a lovely and peaceful option with a lemon grove garden.

Click here to explore more hotel options in Capri.

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@postcardsfromcarrie Replying to @borahborah999 It’s not as high as it looks! You are never actually that high off of the ground. If you’ve ever been on a ski chair lift it is the same at the highest point. I am afraid of heights and was totally comfortable. The views are absolutely spectacular. Highly recommend! #capri #capriitaly #amalficoast #chairlift #montesolaro #italytraveltips #italy🇮🇹 #italy ♬ A Summer Place - Hollywood Strings Orchestra