Italy

How to Spend a Day in Capri – Ferry Tips, Beaches, Kayaking & Where to Eat

words: Sophie Alexander-Osman
photography: Sophie Alexander-Osman
published: November 12, 2025

Rising from the Tyrrhenian Sea just off Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, Capri is a small island of cliffs, coves, and impossibly blue water. Though only 10 square kilometres, its steep terrain makes it feel much larger — from sea level to the top of Monte Solaro, the island climbs nearly 600 metres. Roads curve along terraces of lemon trees and whitewashed villas, leading to hidden beaches and panoramic viewpoints over the Bay of Naples. It’s the kind of place that feels effortlessly glamorous yet still connected to nature, and perfect for a day trip from Sorrento when planned right.

Getting to Capri from Sorrento

Ferries to Capri depart from Marina Piccola, the main port in Sorrento, with frequent departures throughout the day. You can book tickets in advance through Ferryhopper, but it’s worth knowing that many of the smaller, open-top yachts used by some operators can be crowded and unshaded — not ideal during the summer heat.

We travelled with Caremar, a larger ferry company that also carries cars. Their boats have air-conditioned indoor seating, are smoother on the water, and reach Capri in around 25 minutes. It’s a more comfortable and slightly cheaper option than the smaller yacht ferries, especially during peak season.

Once you arrive at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port, look for the funicular station (cable railway) opposite the pier. The short, scenic ride takes just a few minutes and brings you straight up to the centre of Capri town.

Exploring Capri Town

The funicular opens out onto the Piazzetta di Capri, the island’s lively square lined with cafés and terraces. From here, Capri’s elegance is instantly visible — narrow lanes filled with designer boutiques, jewellery shops, and tiny cafés tucked beneath bougainvillaea-covered balconies.

Walk along Via Camerelle, the main shopping street, which connects the Piazzetta with the quieter area of Via Tragara. At the end of the path, you’ll reach the Belvedere di Tragara, one of the island’s best viewpoints overlooking the Faraglioni rock formations that rise dramatically from the sea below.

Things to Do in Capri

If you arrive early, explore Capri town before it fills up. For coffee or a light breakfast, stop at Bar Tiberio in the Piazzetta before heading out to walk.

From Capri town, you can take a local bus down to Marina Piccola, the small bay on the south side of the island. It’s lined with beach clubs, restaurants, and rocky coves perfect for swimming. During peak times, buses can be slow, and waiting times can reach 30–40 minutes in late afternoon when everyone is heading back to the port, so plan ahead. We walked from Capri town down to Marina Piccola and took the bus back in the late afternoon.

For something more active, book a kayak tour with Capri Hydro. Their guided trips set off from Marina Piccola and circle the cliffs, taking you through sea caves and right up close to the base of the Faraglioni. It’s one of the most peaceful ways to experience the island — away from the large tourist boats.

Where to Eat in Capri

Capri’s dining scene ranges from seaside trattorias to elegant lemon groves. We started our day with breakfast at Da Gregorio Ristorante & Bar, a small family-run spot on Via Marina Piccola. The terrace looks out over the cliffs, and the menu features simple local dishes made with island produce — perfect for a quiet start before the crowds arrive.

After kayaking, we stopped for lunch at Le Sirene Beach Club Restaurant in Marina Piccola. Set right by the water, it’s an ideal post-swim spot with tables almost touching the sea and classic Mediterranean plates like grilled fish, pasta with clams, and fresh salads.

For dinner, La Capannina in Capri town is one of the island’s most established restaurants, serving traditional dishes like spaghetti alle vongole and fresh seafood in an elegant yet welcoming setting. It’s long been a local favourite and draws regulars back year after year.

If you’re staying longer, Da Paolino remains Capri’s most famous restaurant, known for its tables beneath a canopy of lemon trees, while La Canzone del Mare offers a smart seaside setting for dinner with views of the Faraglioni.

Best Beaches and Swimming Spots

Capri’s coastline is steep, so most beaches are small rocky coves rather than sandy stretches. Bagni di Tiberio, a short walk or boat ride from Marina Grande, is one of the best options for a late swim before heading back to the ferry. Sunbeds are available to rent, or you can simply find a quiet spot along the rocks.

At Marina Piccola, you’ll find small patches of beach and several lidos where you can rent loungers for the day. The water here is calm and clear, and you can swim with a view of the Faraglioni just offshore.

Returning to Sorrento

Ferries back to Sorrento run throughout the afternoon and early evening, but it’s best to buy your return ticket in advance. During summer, allow time to get back down from Capri town to Marina Grande, as queues for the bus or funicular can build up around sunset. The ride back is quick and easy, rounding off a full day exploring one of Italy’s most beautiful islands.