The island of Capri has long been a playground for jet setters. With its stunning natural beauty, world-class hotels, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, Capri continues to captivate travelers who love being part of the “see and be seen” crowd. What people may not know is that just beyond the restaurants and bars are authentic Italian moments, from cooking classes to artisan tours to hikes reached by chair lift.
We just came back from a four-day scouting trip and here are our “hot off the press” tips on where to stay, eat, and play on this enchanting Italian island.
STAY: Capri Tiberio Palace
For those who want to be in the heart of the action, the Capri Tiberio Palace is a perfect place to stay. This five-star hotel is just steps away from the legendary Piazzetta and the trendy boutiques of Via Camerelle in the center of Capri. But what really sets it apart is its playful and whimsical decor. Each room is uniquely designed combining state-of-the-art amenities and vintage finds from around the world. Of course, as you might imagine, the restaurant and spa are first rate.
STAY: Punta Tragara
If you want a more secluded experience, the Punta Tragara is an excellent choice. Located a delightful and picturesque 10-minute walk from downtown, this five-star hotel offers a peaceful escape from the bustling town center. The highlight of Punta Tragara is undoubtedly its stunning pool area, which cascades down towards the sea, providing breathtaking views of the sea. For food enthusiasts, the hotel's two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Monzù, is not to be missed.
EAT
At the top of our must-book list is Aurora, right in the heart of town. It’s not only the oldest restaurant in Capri; it’s also the most celebrated. Known for its impeccable service and outstanding cuisine, Aurora is the quintessential Capri dining experience – a true bucket-list restaurant.
For a lively atmosphere, we highly recommend Villa Verde. The spirited atmosphere and local cuisine make it one of the most fun and in-demand spots on the island. Italians dine at 9:30, so we recommend making a late reservation to really partake in the fun atmosphere.
Another hot spot is Panorama, which, as the name suggests, offers stunning views of the ocean. You’ll dine on the terrace overlooking the Bay of Naples, an enchanted garden-like setting that’s perfect for enjoying their modern take on traditional dishes. Do not miss their Ravioli Alla Caprese; its the island’s signature dish and done particularly well here.
PLAY
When it comes to after-hours entertainment, Anema e Core is really the only place to be. It’s the epicenter of Capri's nightlife, offering live music and dancing that keeps the party going until the early hours. It's the perfect spot to mingle with both locals and fellow travelers in a lively, upscale setting.
DO
Hiking was our favorite way to start the day while we were there. You’ll get absolutely breathtaking views and by going early, you’ll beat the heat and the crowds.
For a more leisurely approach to sightseeing, take a ride on the chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro. The slow ascent offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea – a photographer's dream.
Taking a cooking class is a great way to meet locals and learn something new. Plus, you’ll get to bring home skills and recipes to recreate authentic dishes right in your own kitchen.
WHEN TO VISIT
Capri no longer has a shoulder season – it's either in full swing or closed for the season. The island typically opens for visitors in April and closes in October. While April might see some rainy days, from May through October, you can expect beautiful weather—and crowds. Capri is at its busiest during these months, so plan accordingly.
Three or four days is plenty of time in Capri, so If you want a longer trip, we recommend combining a stay in Capri with a four-day trip to the Amalfi coast or our other favorite island, Ischia.
KIDS OR NO?
While families with children are certainly welcome on Capri, the island is best suited for couples, groups of friends, or families with older teenagers. The main attractions of Capri – its high-end restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and luxury shopping – are geared more toward adult tastes. Also worth noting: most hotels do not have direct sea access, which is a dealbreaker for a lot of families. Finally, fair warning: Capri (and the entire Amalfi Coast area) is quite expensive and costs add up quickly when you’ve got a big crew with you.
If Capri sounds like your kind of trip, get in touch. We’re on standby to do the work so you can just sit back, relax, and get ready to go on your next adventure.