Capri is a beautiful island located in the Gulf (or Bay, I never know which it is) of Naples, Italy, known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious lifestyle. It has a rich and storied history dating back thousands of years. We visited in 2009 and loved it. It was both glorious and intimidating.
Side note: This is part of my 12-part series of travel posts all summer long! All my travel posts including this series and all posts from the last 12 years can be found here. But all my August posts are specifically about places in Italy.
History
Capri was first inhabited in the Neolithic era and was later settled by the ancient Greeks, who named the island “Kaapre.” During the Roman Empire, the island was a popular vacation spot for the wealthy, and several luxurious villas were built there. In the early Middle Ages, Capri was ruled by a series of feudal lords, including the Benedictine Monks.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Capri became a popular destination for artists, writers, and intellectuals, including German poet August Graf von Platen and English writer Somerset Maugham. It was also a favorite spot of the emperor Augustus, and several ancient ruins from his villa can still be seen on the island today.
After World War II, Capri experienced a boom in tourism and it has remained a popular tourist destination especially for celebrities. Its stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and luxurious lifestyle.
Throughout its history, Capri has played host to a diverse array of cultures and civilizations, each leaving their mark on the island and shaping its rich history and heritage.
Places to Eat
While visiting Capri, one of the best parts of dining out is the people watching, but also the fresh local ingredients. The island of Capri is known for its Mediterranean cuisine. The local cuisine features fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits, as well as locally made cheeses and olive oil. Some of the most popular dishes include spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), insalata caprese (tomato and mozzarella salad), and saltimbocca alla caprese (veal scaloppine with tomato and mozzarella). Caprese cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The island is also known for its limoncello, a sweet lemon liqueur that is often served as an after-dinner drink. Here are some top picks for dining in Capri, keeping in mind many are closed in the off-season (November to March):
• Da Giorgio – This is one of the best restaurants in Capri for seafood, located in Anacapri.
• Il Riccio – This is a chic and sophisticated seafood restaurant, located in Marina Piccola. Michelin Guide likes this place.
• Da Paolino – This is a charming and rustic restaurant, known for its lemons and homemade lemon-based dishes.
• La Capannina – This is a traditional Italian trattoria, located in Anacapri, known for its pasta dishes and pizza.
• Da Tonino – This is a cozy and casual restaurant, located in Marina Grande, known for its delicious seafood and simple, home-style cooking. Michelin Guide likes this place.
• Al Grottino – Classic dishes from Capri, plus Mediterranean seafood staples, in a relaxed, homey venue.
• Ristorant Panorama Capri – The view over the sea and the iconic clock tower in the Piazzetta, the canopy of lemon trees, the traditional dishes served with a contemporary twist.
For lesser known and budget-friendly spots on Capri, here is a list of places an Italian friend recommended. They don’t live on Capri, but being nearby they and their friends have had a fair number of day trips there. Some of these are classic pizzerias perfect if you want to grab take-away and dine on your hotel balcony or in your AirBnB.
Things to Do
Here are a few things to do when visiting Capri:
- Visit the Blue Grotto: This famous sea cave is known for its brilliant blue light that reflects off the water. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the grotto up close.
- Explore the historic center of Capri Town: The island’s main town is home to charming streets, elegant shops, and picturesque piazzas.
- Take a stroll on the famous Piazzetta: The Piazzetta is the island’s main square, and it’s a great place to people-watch and take in the local atmosphere.
- Visit the Villa Jovis: This ancient Roman villa is located on the top of a mountain, and it offers beautiful views of the island and the sea.
- Go shopping: Capri is known for its luxury boutiques and designer shops, and you can find everything from designer clothing and accessories to handmade ceramics and jewelry.
- Take a boat tour of the island: A boat tour is a great way to see the island from a different perspective and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
- Enjoy the beaches: Capri has several beautiful beaches, such as Marina Piccola and Marina Grande, where you can sunbathe, swim, and relax.
- Visit the Faraglioni Rocks: The Faraglioni are three distinctive rock stacks located just off the coast of Capri, they are one of the most iconic natural attraction of the island.
I didn’t include accommodations in this post because it is really based on who is traveling and budgetary considerations. I’d recommend very different places for a romantic couple’s retreat versus a family beach vacation. But I’ll say that when we went, we stayed at The Weber Ambassador and enjoyed it. It’s on the beach and has a pool, plus a shuttle from the port and downtown Capri. Though we walked across the island ourselves and this next photo was the view we enjoyed. Worth the trek!
Capri is a perfect destination for those who love luxury, beauty, and exclusivity. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a relaxing holiday.