Capri: 10 Things to Do

You’re planning a trip to Capri, but you’re probably wondering how to experience this stunning Italian island without breaking the bank. While Capri has a reputation for luxury and high prices, there are plenty of ways to enjoy its natural beauty, rich history, and authentic culture on a reasonable budget. From free hiking trails with breathtaking views to affordable local experiences that capture the island’s true essence, smart planning will help you discover what makes this Mediterranean gem so special.

Take a Boat Tour to the Blue Grotto and Faraglioni Rocks

When you’re planning your Capri adventure, a boat tour to the Blue Grotto and Faraglioni Rocks should top your list—it’s the most efficient way to see the island’s two most iconic natural attractions in one trip.

You’ll find shared group tours from Marina Grande for around €24 per person, which include coastal sightseeing and grotto visits.

If you’re traveling with a group, consider splitting a private gozzo boat (up to 7 passengers) for about €300—it guarantees Blue Grotto access and flexible timing.

Inside the grotto, you’ll transfer to small rowboats and lie down to enter through the low cave mouth. The underwater sunlight creates an otherworldly blue glow that’s truly unforgettable. Your visit inside will last approximately five minutes, allowing just enough time to admire the iconic illumination.

Ride the Chairlift Up Monte Solaro for Island Views

On the lookout for the best panoramic views on Capri without breaking the bank? The Monte Solaro chairlift offers incredible 360-degree vistas for just €14 round trip. You’ll find the “Seggiovia Monte Solaro” station in Anacapri’s Piazza Vittoria, easily reachable by €2.50 minibus from Capri port.

The 13-minute ride takes you 589 meters up on single wooden seats, ascending over olive groves with stunning ocean views. You’ll need decent mobility since you must hop on and off moving chairs – kids under 8 can share your seat.

At the summit, grab refreshments at the café while soaking in panoramic views. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, and consider hiking down the scenic 1.5-hour trail instead of riding back. The chairlift has operated safely since 1952, with a major overhaul completed in 1999.

Stroll Through the Piazzetta for Aperitivo Culture

Every evening, Capri’s tiny Piazzetta transforms into the island’s most animated social scene, where you can sip spritz cocktails for €8-12 while watching an endless parade of designer-clad locals and travelers. Known as “the world’s living room,” this intimate square centered around the historic Clock Tower has perfected aperitivo culture since the 1930s.

You’ll find the best people-watching from 5-7pm when locals mingle with international visitors at outdoor café tables. The square’s compact size creates an infectious social energy—everyone becomes part of the scene. This tradition of gathering continues the island’s legacy as a destination where diverse social classes have long been welcomed with care and discretion.

Start at Grand Café Vuotto for tradition, then explore surrounding bars. Don’t worry about reservations; just grab any available table and embrace the relaxed atmosphere that makes this piazza Capri’s beating heart.

Walk via Krupp From Gardens of Augustus to Marina Piccola

After you’ve soaked up the Gardens of Augustus’ terraced beauty, the legendary Via Krupp switchbacks down the cliffside in eight dramatic hairpin turns toward Marina Piccola‘s crystalline waters. This 1,346-meter engineering marvel was carved into rocky ridges by German industrialist Friedrich Alfred Krupp in the early 1900s to connect his yacht mooring with his hilltop residence.

Pack water and wear sturdy shoes—the steep descent demands respect. You’ll catch breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rocks and Bay of Naples between Mediterranean pines. The white limestone walkway creates stunning photo opportunities against the blue Tyrrhenian Sea. However, the path is currently closed due to rockfall danger, though it may reopen seasonally depending on safety conditions.

Once you reach Marina Piccola, you’ll find free beaches alongside pricier beach clubs. The 20-minute uphill return walk saves money versus taking the local bus back to town.

Explore Villa Jovis Ruins Where Emperor Tiberius Lived

Perched 330 meters above the Tyrrhenian Sea, Villa Jovis stands as Emperor Tiberius’ most ambitious retreat—the largest of twelve villas he built across Capri around 27 AD.

You’ll need to budget 40 minutes for the steep uphill hike from Piazzetta, but it’s free once you’re there.

The 7,000-square-meter complex spreads across terraced slopes where you can explore Tiberius’ private apartments, ancient cisterns, and bath ruins. Don’t miss the observatory remains where his astrologer once worked.

The panoramic views of Naples Bay reward your effort—bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the challenging walk. A famous 92-meter balcony designed for walking offers sweeping views from Ischia to Campanella Point.

Plan your visit early morning to avoid crowds and heat, especially during summer months.

Shop Via Camerelle and Browse Capri’s Luxury Boutiques

Just a 5-minute stroll from Piazzetta, Via Camerelle packs the world’s most prestigious fashion houses—Gucci, Chanel, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton—into a stunning 200-meter stretch of cobblestone elegance.

Even if luxury shopping isn’t in your budget, you’ll enjoy window browsing among the beautiful floral displays and elegant architecture. As you walk, look for Roman cisterns that remain visible along the street, remnants of the ancient Villa Jovis structures that give this shopping district its unique historical character.

Don’t miss the local artisan shops offering handcrafted sandals from family-owned Da Costanzo (operating since 1963) and bespoke jewelry from Grazia & Marica Vozza Capri.

For unique souvenirs, explore nearby Via Le Botteghe’s traditional shops featuring handmade linens and local ceramics.

Wear comfortable shoes—those cobblestones can be tricky to navigate.

Take breaks at the upscale gelaterias scattered throughout the area to fuel your shopping adventure.

Relax at Marina Grande Beach and Harbor

Marina Grande serves as both Capri’s main transportation hub and its most accessible beach destination, making it the perfect spot to ease into island life after your ferry arrival.

You’ll find Capri’s largest beach here, though it’s still quite small with a pebbled surface that requires careful footing. The clear, gradually deepening water is perfect for swimming, and the public area costs nothing to access.

While private beach clubs Le Ondine and Lo Smeraldo offer umbrella and lounger rentals, you can easily enjoy the free public section with your own towel.

The colorful fishermen’s houses create a picturesque backdrop, and waterfront restaurants serve fresh seafood. Despite its proximity to the busy port, the water quality remains high, making it suitable for families and swimming.

Don’t miss the boat shuttles to other beaches or tours departing directly from the harbor.

Visit the Church of San Michele for Its Majolica Floor

While many visitors rush to Capri’s famous Blue Grotto, you’ll discover one of Italy’s most stunning artistic treasures tucked away in quiet Anacapri at the Church of San Michele. This octagonal Baroque church houses an extraordinary majolica floor mosaic depicting Adam and Eve’s expulsion from Eden, created by master craftsman Leonardo Chiaiese in 1761.

You’ll walk along a protective wooden boardwalk to admire the 1,500 hand-painted ceramic tiles up close. Then climb the spiral staircase for a breathtaking aerial view of the entire masterpiece. Walking directly on the floor is strictly forbidden to preserve this delicate artwork for future generations. The modest entrance fee is excellent value for witnessing this 18th-century Neapolitan art at its finest.

Take bus transport from Capri town center to reach Piazza San Nicola affordably.

Hike to Belvedere Di Tragara for Dramatic Cliff Views

After soaking up Anacapri’s artistic treasures, you’ll want to experience Capri’s natural beauty firsthand with a scenic walk to Belvedere di Tragara. This easy 15-minute stroll from Piazza Umberto I follows Via Camerelle and Via Tragara, passing luxury shops before reaching stunning coastal views.

You’ll be rewarded with iconic panoramas of the Faraglioni sea stacks rising dramatically from turquoise waters. The stone promenade offers perfect photo opportunities framing these limestone towers against Mediterranean flora. Marina Piccola’s charming bay provides additional scenic backdrop. Don’t miss the chance to try fresh lemon granita from the Singing Lemonade Lady who often entertains visitors with her melodic performances while serving refreshing treats.

The flat, well-maintained path suits all fitness levels and won’t cost you anything beyond comfortable walking shoes.

Consider extending your hike to the Natural Arch or Grotta di Matermania for a fuller coastal experience, or combine it with nearby Giardini di Augusto.

Take a Cooking Class to Learn Local Pasta Traditions

Since you’ve worked up an appetite exploring Capri’s scenic trails, there’s no better way to learn about local culture than rolling up your sleeves for a hands-on pasta-making class. You’ll learn to craft traditional ravioli, tagliatelle, and fresh egg pasta alongside professional local chefs in intimate groups of up to 10 people.

These 1.5 to 3-hour classes take place in authentic settings—from seaside restaurants to garden villas in Anacapri—often featuring stunning panoramic views. You’ll master classic techniques using local ingredients and typically prepare complementary dishes like bruschetta and tiramisu. Many classes begin with a market tour to source fresh, authentic ingredients before heading to the kitchen.

Expect to pay $125-$333 per person, with many offering free cancellation within 24 hours. Classes often include wine tastings and accommodate dietary restrictions, making this an accessible cultural experience for everyone.

The Sum Up

You’ve got plenty to choose from on Capri, so don’t feel pressured to cram everything in. Book boat tours early for better prices, and consider visiting in shoulder season when it’s less crowded and cheaper. Pack comfortable shoes for all that walking, and grab groceries from local markets instead of touristy restaurants to save money. Whether you’re here for one day or a week, you’ll leave wanting more.