Last Updated on May 14, 2025 by Tori Pines
If you’re visiting the magical country of Italy anytime soon, spending 1 day in Capri should be high on your list. Whether you’re staying in Positano on the Amalfi Coast, enjoying time in Naples, or even traveling from Rome, a Capri day trip is a must-do experience packed with beauty, history, and unforgettable sights.
While some travelers choose to stay overnight, you can absolutely enjoy the highlights of Capri in just one day—with the right plan. This guide will show you exactly how to get to Capri, what to do with 1 day in Capri, plus some bonus ideas if you have more time and want to stay longer on this dreamy island.
How to Get to Capri
Capri is a small island located just off the coast of southern Italy, near Naples and the Amalfi Coast. It’s accessible only by boat, and there are three primary ways to get there depending on your travel style and budget.
1. Small Group Boat Tour from Positano (Recommended)
If you’re based in Positano, the best way to get to Capri is to join a small group boat tour. These tours typically last around 8 hours, departing around 9 AM and returning by 5 PM. You’ll enjoy a scenic ride along the coast, a guided tour around Capri’s famous grottos and cliffs, and about 4 hours of free time on the island itself.
You’ll check in at the main marina in Positano, board a small boat (usually around 15 people), and cruise over to Capri. Many tours also include a stop for swimming, drinks, and a guided circle of the island, with plenty of fun photo ops near the Faraglioni rocks, the Blue Grotto, and other iconic landmarks. Our day trip to Capri from Positano was arguably the best day we had in Italy!!
If you’re staying in Naples, Sorrento, or other places on the Amalfi Coast, there are day tours that you can take from those destinations instead!
2. Private Boat Rental
For a more luxurious and customized experience, consider renting a private boat with a skipper. While it costs significantly more (starting at $600 for a full day), it becomes more cost-effective if you’re traveling with a group. You’ll have full control of your itinerary and can choose how long to spend at each stop—perfect if you want to explore at your own pace or avoid crowds.
3. Public Ferry
The Capri ferry is the most budget-friendly option, with round-trip tickets averaging $50 per person. Ferries run regularly from Positano, Sorrento, and Naples, and take around 40 minutes each way. However, be aware: this option is less efficient and more time-consuming due to boarding times, wait times, and the need to separately book a tour around the island if you want to see more than just the town center.
If you’re prone to seasickness, the ferry may be your best option, as the larger boats are more stable than smaller group or private boats.
1 Day in Capri Itinerary
Once you arrive on the island, it’s time to dive into your Capri day itinerary. This plan gives you the perfect balance of sightseeing, relaxing, and soaking in the island’s legendary style.
Stop 1: Marina Grande
You’ll begin your day in Marina Grande, Capri’s bustling main port. It’s home to a small beach, some lively souvenir shops, and plenty of gelato and lemon granita stands—perfect for grabbing a cool treat before exploring further. Spend 30–45 minutes here walking around and taking in the vibe.
Want to skip the crowds quickly? Hop on the funicular up to Capri town—or walk the scenic uphill path past local homes for a more authentic experience. The walk gives you a peek into daily life on the island and isn’t too strenuous if you take your time.
Stop 2: Capri Town & Shopping
At the top of the funicular lies Capri town, a glamorous square filled with designer shops, elegant boutiques, and quaint cafes. While it’s touristy, it still feels charming and luxurious—just the way Capri is meant to feel.
Make sure to visit one of the many handmade sandal shops where artisans will craft a custom pair for you on the spot. You choose the style, colors, and embellishments, and they build the sandals right onto your foot. Talk about a one-of-a-kind souvenir! I had mine made at A Mano Capri Sandals. They are gorgeous, high quality and reasonably priced. in 2022 I paid a little over $100 for mine.
Even if you’re not planning to shop, it’s fun to window-browse the high-end fashion stores and designer labels that line the streets—Capri is known for drawing stylish travelers from around the world.
Stop 3: Gardens of Augustus
From Capri town, take a short walk to the Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto). These beautifully landscaped gardens cost just a couple of euros to enter and offer one of the best photo spots on the island. The view over the Faraglioni rocks and the iconic Via Krupp, a zigzagging road carved into the cliffside, is stunning. The road itself is usually closed, but the view is a must-see.
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Optional Stop 4: Anacapri & Monte Solaro
If you’re up for more adventure, take a bus or taxi to the quieter town of Anacapri on the western side of the island. Here, you’ll find fewer crowds, a more relaxed vibe, and access to the Monte Solaro chairlift, which takes you to the highest point on Capri. The panoramic views are breathtaking and give you a completely different perspective of the island.
If time is short, you can save Anacapri for a return trip—but if you can squeeze it in, it’s totally worth it.
Additional Things to Do in Capri
If you find yourself with extra time or decide to come back for a longer visit, Capri has plenty more to offer beyond your 1-day itinerary.
- Blue Grotto – Famous for its glowing blue water, this sea cave can be visited by rowboat, weather permitting. Note that it’s often crowded and pricey, but it’s a classic Capri experience.
- Villa San Michele – Located in Anacapri, this historic villa offers beautiful gardens and sweeping views.
- Beach Clubs – Spend an afternoon at a luxe beach club like La Fontelina or La Palma if you’d rather relax than explore.
- Boat Rentals or Jet Skis – For the more adventurous, explore the coastline yourself or with a guide.
Where to Eat in Capri
Capri is bursting with delicious food, but a few local specialties stand out.
Must-Try Foods
- Lemons – Capri’s famous lemons are HUGE and bursting with flavor. Try a lemon granita, lemon ravioli, or sip the local limoncello.
- Caprese Salad – Invented on the island and now known around the world, this simple mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and salt is perfection. Try it at Hotel Quisisana, where it’s said to have originated.
Where to Eat
- Da Paolino – Dine under a canopy of lemon trees in this iconic restaurant. It’s romantic, unique, and extremely popular. Make reservations months in advance if possible!
- Salumeria Da Aldo – Perfect for a quick lunch or sandwich on the go—especially the Caprese sandwich.
- La Capannina, Lo Sfizio, and Pescheria Le Botteghe – All great local restaurants with excellent seafood and traditional Italian dishes.
Where to Stay in Capri (If You Extend Your Trip)
While you can see a lot in one day, staying overnight in Capri lets you enjoy the island in a much more relaxed way—especially after the day-trippers leave and the island quiets down.
Why Stay Overnight?
- Peaceful evenings without crowds
- Opportunity to explore sunrise views and late dinners
- Time to visit both Capri town and Anacapri without rushing
- Access to additional hiking trails and beaches
Recommended Places to Stay
- Luxury: JK Place Capri, Hotel Quisisana, or Punta Tragara for a high-end experience
- Boutique: Villa Helios Capri or Hotel Canasta for charm without the huge price tag
- Budget-friendly: Casa Gaia Capri or a cozy VRBO in Anacapri
Final Thoughts on 1 Day in Capri
Spending 1 day in Capri is a dream experience filled with natural beauty, style, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re zipping over on a boat from Positano or extending your trip for a longer island stay, Capri will steal your heart one lemon at a time.
Even if it’s your first time to Italy, this day trip offers a perfect mix of sightseeing and indulgence—and might just become the highlight of your trip.
