Best Things to Do in Capri: Day Trip on an Island

Think of Capri as Italy’s answer to effortless cool. It’s where ancient Roman emperors built their villas, where movie stars still sneak off to hide in plain sight, and where you could spend all day doing absolutely nothing, and still call it magical. Hop on a ferry from Naples, Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast, and within an hour, you’re stepping into a world of lemon groves, cliffside cafés, and sea views that don’t need a filter. But don’t stop at the views. Capri is also for wanderers, swimmers, and yes, Campania wineries too. So if you’re wondering what to do in Capri… the real question is: where do you want to fall in love first?

What are the best things to do in Capri?

Explore the historic center and iconic Piazzetta

Once you arrive by ferry to Marina Grande, hop on the funicular or a local minibus and make your way up to Capri town, it’s where the magic really starts. At the center of it all? The famous Piazzetta, a tiny square with a big personality. Order a cappuccino, snag a table under the umbrellas, and soak in the stylish buzz. Around you: boutique shops, locals in linen, and architecture that blends old-school elegance with Mediterranean flair. This is the glamorous Capri moment you’ve been waiting for.

Walk to the Gardens of Augustus

This is your “wow” moment. The Gardens of Augustus are a must, compact, peaceful, and perched right on the cliff’s edge. Stroll past bursts of vibrant flowers and a lemon-scented breeze as you take in one of the island’s most jaw-dropping views. From here, the iconic Faraglioni sea stacks feel almost within reach, and the hairpin curves of Via Krupp snake dramatically below you.

Take a Blue Grotto tour

One of the best ways to experience Capri? From the water. Book a small boat tour around the island and prepare for nonstop scenery, dramatic cliffs, natural arches, secret swim spots, and sea caves galore. The highlight? The legendary Blue Grotto. If the sea is calm, your skipper can guide you into this surreal, glowing cave where sunlight filters through the water, turning everything an electric blue. Sure, the lines can be long, but slipping into that neon-blue world is something you won’t forget.

Wander along Via Camerelle

If you’re into luxury, style, and people-watching, Via Camerelle is Capri’s fashion runway. Lined with designer boutiques, chic hotels, and fragrant cafés shaded by lemon trees, it’s where Italian elegance meets Mediterranean charm. Even if you’re just browsing, the vibe is all part of the experience, and if you visit in summer, you might even spot a celebrity or two ducking into a Gucci or Dior store. It’s the perfect blend of fashion, sunshine, and island glamour.

Visit the beaches at Marina Piccola

If you’re looking for the best swimming spot in Capri, head to Marina Piccola. This little bay on the southern side of the island is a local favorite for a reason: calm, clear waters, a view of the Faraglioni rocks, and just enough buzz without the crowds. It’s perfect for grabbing a sunbed, ordering a glass of local white wine, and just unwinding. You can reach it by bus or take the scenic walk down from Capri town, your legs might complain, but your camera roll won’t.

Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Villa Jovis

Make your way to Villa Jovis, the former clifftop retreat of Emperor Tiberius. Tucked away on the eastern tip of the island, this archaeological site offers sweeping views and a fascinating glimpse into Roman life at the edge of the empire. It’s a bit of a hike (or a short bus ride), but the mix of ruins, coastline, and eerie calm is totally worth it.

Admire the sunset from Punta Carena Lighthouse

For a quieter escape on the island, head to Punta Carena Lighthouse near Anacapri. Perched on the rugged western cliffs of Capri, it’s one of the best places to wind down your day with sweeping sea views and magical sunset colors. It’s less crowded than other spots, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll or a laid-back drink by the water as the light fades over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Uncover the Charm of Villa Lysis

Tucked just beyond the buzz of Capri town, Villa Lysis is the island’s best-kept secret. Dreamy, dramatic, and a little rebellious, this romantic hideaway feels like a world apart. Think overgrown gardens, sweeping sea views, and neoclassical flair with a poetic twist. If you’re craving a break from the crowds, this is where Capri whispers instead of shouts.

Marvel at the Certosa di San Giacomo

Just steps from the Gardens of Augustus, the Charterhouse of San Giacomo is where Capri hits pause. This former monastery, now an art-filled retreat, trades the island’s glitz for something slower, quieter, and honestly refreshing. Wander its cloisters, let the sea breeze drift through the stone corridors, and enjoy a rare moment of solitude far from the buzzing crowds.

See the Faraglioni closely by boat

To understand why they are one of the most-photographed landmarks in Italy, you need to take a boat close to the Faraglioni. Many tours pass through the central arch of the largest sea stack, a quintessential Capri experience, especially for couples!

What are the best things to do around Capri?

Explore the coastal charm of Sorrento

Just about 25 to 30 minutes by ferry from Marina Grande, Sorrento makes for an easy and rewarding day trip from Capri. This cliffside town is all about charm, think lemon-scented lanes, sea-view cafés, and that classic Italian mix of elegance and warmth. Grab a bite in the historic center, stroll through artisan shops, or sip limoncello overlooking the Bay of Naples.

Want more sweet spots like this? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Sorrento Italy for sunshine, seafood, and scenic strolls worth every step.

Visit the mythical island of Ischia

Looking to unwind after Capri’s cliff hikes and boat tours? Hop on a ferry, about 75 minutes, and head to Ischia, Capri’s laid-back volcanic cousin. This island is all about deep relaxation: natural thermal springs, soothing spas, and garden-covered hills that seem made for wandering. After days of exploring Via Krupp or climbing Monte Solaro, Ischia offers the perfect pause button. Take a dip in the healing waters of Negombo or Poseidon, then wander the ramparts of Castello Aragonese, dramatically perched above the sea.

Ready for the ultimate island balance? Here’s where to visit Ischia Italy and add a splash of spa-worthy calm to your Capri itinerary.

Take a cultural detour to Naples

Need a change of pace from island life? Just 45 minutes by ferry from Capri, Naples brings the heat, with ancient ruins, buzzing piazzas, and pizza that could change your life. Spend your morning soaking up Capri’s sea views, then sail into a city where history and street food collide and finally head to Naples wine tours. From the National Archaeological Museum to baroque churches and the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is intense, flavorful, and wildly alive.

Hungry for more than just pizza? Dive into our full list of best things to do in Naples and make it part of your Capri escape.

Unwind in the stylish streets of Positano

Just 40 minutes by scenic ferry from Capri, Positano and its wine tastings feels like stepping into a dream painted in pastels. With bougainvillea-draped buildings tumbling down the cliffs and chic beach clubs lining the shore, it’s the perfect next stop after exploring Capri and Anacapri. You can browse artisan shops, enjoy a long lunch with a sea view, or take a boat ride along the coast, Positano knows how to do coastal elegance right.

Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Positano and make your itinerary shine.

Good to Know before visiting Capri