Capri, Italy

A must-see is the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), a magical sea cave famous for the brilliant blue light that illuminates its interior. You can reach it via small motorboats from Marina Grande, followed by a transfer to even smaller rowboats to enter the cave.

The heart of the island is the Piazzetta (Piazza Umberto I) in Capri town, a glamorous square perfect for people-watching from its chic cafes. It's easily reached from the port via the funicular. A short walk from the Piazzetta leads to the Gardens of Augustus, which offer stunning panoramic views of the Faraglioni rock formations. For art and history lovers, the Villa San Michele in Anacapri, a scenic bus ride away, is a beautiful house-museum with gorgeous gardens and breathtaking vistas.

One of the most popular nearby destinations is the town of Anacapri, located at a higher elevation on the island. It offers a more tranquil atmosphere than Capri town and is accessible via a short, scenic bus ride of about 15 minutes. From Anacapri, you can take a chairlift to the summit of Monte Solaro for the best views on the island.

For those with a full day, taking a hydrofoil or ferry to Sorrento on the mainland is a great option. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes and opens up opportunities to explore this charming coastal town known for its sea cliffs and sweeping water views.

Cruise ships visiting Capri do not dock directly at a pier but instead anchor offshore in the Bay of Naples. Passengers are then brought to shore via smaller boats called tenders. All tenders arrive at Marina Grande, the island's main port, located on the northern coast.

Marina Grande is a bustling harbor but it is situated at the bottom of a steep cliff, while the main town of Capri is at the top. It is not feasible to walk to the main attractions from the port. You must use transportation, such as the funicular, a bus, or a taxi, to ascend to Capri town or Anacapri. The port area itself has numerous cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and ticket offices for boats and public transport.

The official currency in Capri is the Euro (€). While some major hotels might accept US dollars at an unfavorable exchange rate, it is not common practice. You should plan to use Euros for all transactions.

Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and boutiques. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, bus tickets, or tips. ATMs, known locally as 'Bancomat', are readily available in Marina Grande, Capri town, and Anacapri for cash withdrawals.

Capri is generally considered a very safe destination with a low crime rate. The primary concern for tourists is petty theft, such as pickpocketing, which can occur in crowded areas like the Piazzetta, on public buses, or in funicular queues. It is advisable to keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in these busy spots.

The island's roads are very narrow and winding, so exercise caution when walking near traffic or riding in vehicles. Exploring independently is safe and highly recommended, as the island is easy to navigate. There are no specific areas to avoid; the entire island is welcoming to tourists.

Capri enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal cruise destination from spring through fall. The main cruise season from April to October sees warm and sunny weather. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are particularly pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (60-77°F).

Summers (June-August) are hot and dry, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F) and abundant sunshine. Rainfall is minimal during these months. Visitors should pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the island's steep paths. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings, especially in the shoulder seasons.

Getting around Capri requires using its unique local transportation system as the towns are located at different elevations. From the port of Marina Grande, the quickest way to reach the main town of Capri is via the funicular, a cable car that ascends the cliff in just a few minutes.

A network of small, orange public buses connects Marina Grande with Capri, Anacapri, and other key points on the island. These buses run frequently but can become very crowded, especially during peak season. Taxis on Capri are often open-air convertibles, offering a scenic but more expensive alternative. Ride-sharing services are not available on the island.

Capri is a world-renowned shopping destination, particularly for luxury goods and high fashion. The most famous shopping street is Via Camerelle in Capri town, where you will find boutiques from top international designers. The area around the Piazzetta is also filled with upscale shops.

For authentic local products, look for handmade leather sandals, which can be custom-fitted while you wait. The island is also famous for its signature perfumes, with Carthusia being a historic local brand. Another popular souvenir is Limoncello, a lemon liqueur produced locally. Prices in boutiques are fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice. You can find more typical souvenir shops in the Marina Grande area.