Capri: A Glimpse of Glam for the Budget Traveller

I have had the opportunity to enjoy two separate day trips to the beautiful island of Capri, and it is an island that I will never forget. This island located in the Bay of Naples is famous for its stunning landscapes and crystal clear waters but is also the site of several significant historical sites. Capri has been a popular destination for centuries and was once a holiday destination for the Roman elite. Today, Capri is very popular with the yachting and cruising community and offers many up-scale hotels, resorts, marinas, and luxury experiences... most of which are well outside of my budget but I was happy to find that there are many ways to explore this beautiful island without breaking the bank. During the high season the towns can get very crowded, especially if a cruise ship (or three) is in port.

In terms of costs, a day trip to the Isle of Capri can be done on a fairly minimal budget. A ferry ticket from Sorrento to Capri will cost around €20, and entry to the Blue Grotto is €13. Eating and drinking on the island can be relatively cheap, with many restaurants offering meals averaging around €10-€15.

Getting Around Capri

Transportation in Capri is easy and convenient, with buses (more like mini-vans) and taxis readily available. However, the best way to explore the island is on foot. Walking is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the island and get a feel for the local culture. I opted to walk in the towns, as it gave me the chance to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.

Wear comfortable footwear: there are parts of the island that you can only get around on foot and often a scenic walk is the only way to get between different spots in town.

Take the funicular from the port to Capri. To travel from Capri to Anacapri, you can take a bus. The bus and the funicular schedule changes season-to-season, but they run very frequently. Walk around the towns on foot.

Once in Anacapri, if you are wanting to get to the top of Mount Solaro but aren't interested in hiking, you can catch the single-chair ski-lift. It's about a 10 minute ride to the highest point on the island, giving you terrific panoramic views.

Capri Town

There are two towns on the island: Capri and Anacapri (meaning higher Capri). The town of Capri is a charming and bustling hub of activity, with narrow, winding streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's the more popular tourist destination and is known for its stunning views, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.

Upon arriving in Capri, I immediately noticed the charming streets and quaint buildings. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and I wandered around taking in the sights and sounds. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with shops selling local goods. Beautiful tile work can be seen everywhere.

Anacapri

Anacapri is the other town. It is a hillside community known for its picturesque views, charming streets, relaxed atmosphere, and slightly lower prices. Unlike the bustling town of Capri, Anacapri is a more peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of tourism and is considered a hidden gem of the island.

One of the most important sights to see in Anacapri is the Villa San Michele, a stunningly beautiful villa that was once home to the Swedish physician and author Axel Munthe. The villa is now a museum and is open to visitors, who can explore the gardens and the interior of the villa, which is filled with art and antiques.

Another important attraction in Anacapri is the Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a historic church that is considered one of the most beautiful in the island.

In addition to its history and architecture, Anacapri is also known for its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and offers spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Visitors can hike or walk along the numerous paths and trails that crisscross the hillside, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the town.

Things to See and Do

There are plenty of tourist activities to keep you entertained, from boat tours around the island to visit the Gardens of Augustus, which offer stunning views over the sea. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained on the Isle of Capri. You can take a stroll around the town, enjoy a scenic boat tour, or visit one of the many stunning beaches.