Capri Travel Guide

Capri has been a pleasure spot for a long time. The ruins of the Villa Jovis attest to the island's first famous pleasure seeker, Emperor Tiberius, who engaged in fantastic debaucheries here with his concubines (male and female). Now the small Italian island in the Bay of Naples is somewhat more refined, a luxurious retreat for the rich, the famous and those in between. Indeed, it's perfect for anyone seeking to unwind and forget about their cares for a while. For in its crystal-clear blue waters, magnificent golden sunrises and hidden rural charms, one discovers bliss (just not the sort that Tiberius found here).

Sights

The Blue Grotto is a must-see destination. The Grotta Azzurra is a sea cave that glows with amazing iridescent blue hues on the inside. The Piazza Umberto I in Capri Town is a place where tourists usually start their tour of the island's attractions, notably Villa Jovis (see above), the Chiesa de Santo Stefano and the Certosa di San Giacomo. Check out the dizzying Salto di Tiberio behind Villa Jovis. This sheer cliff is where Tiberius disposed of those poor souls who, er, fell out of his favor. While there are no sea views in the second town on the island, Anacapri, it has many more places to explore. The gardens of Villa San Michele should not be missed. A two-hour bus trip from Anacapri takes you to the Faro Lighthouse, where the sunset is simply breathtaking. For a view of Naples Bay from the top, take the Monte Solaro chairlift, which will transport you to the summit, 1,900 feet up.

Dining

This is Italy, so of course Capri has excellent dining choices. But this is Capri, so many of them are quite upscale and expensive. But take a look around and you'll also find more modest cafes that serve seafood, pasta and other Italian fare. In Capri Town cafes and eateries cluster in the streets around Piazza Umberto I. There are also roadside vendors and restaurants in Anacapri, particularly in the Faro Lighthouse area.

Shopping

Here for high-end shopping? You're in the right place. Check out the shops that line Piazza Umberto I. Anna Boutique in Via F. Serena has more casual island wear. For a taste of a fine local specialty, pick up some all-natural limoncello liqueur from Limoncello di Capri, located on Via Listeri. For perfume, there's Carthusia Profumi, which sells the famous perfume handmade on the island. For your grocery and picnic needs, the Deco Supermarket in Via Roma has all you need and at surprisingly affordable prices.

Where to Go in Capri