Capri and Ischia

Capri

Capri is one of Italy’s most beautiful islands, famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, elegant atmosphere, and breathtaking views. Start your visit in Piazzetta di Capri, the lively main square where cafés, boutiques, and narrow streets create the island’s famous ambiance. Take a boat tour around the island to see the spectacular Blue Grotto, where sunlight turns the water an incredible glowing blue. Weather and sea conditions determine whether the grotto is open. Don’t miss the iconic Faraglioni, the towering limestone sea stacks that are the symbol of Capri. Many boat tours pass beneath one of the arches. Walk through the beautiful Gardens of Augustus for panoramic views over the sea and the famous winding Via Krupp.

Ride the chairlift from Anacapri to Monte Solaro, the island’s highest point, where you’ll enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Visit the historic Villa San Michele, built by Swedish physician Axel Munthe, featuring beautiful gardens and unforgettable sea views. Explore the ruins of Villa Jovis, the ancient palace of Emperor Tiberius, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean.

Relax at Marina Piccola, one of the island’s best beaches, or stroll around Marina Grande, where ferries arrive from Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Spend time wandering Capri’s luxury shopping streets, enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant, sip a limoncello made from local lemons, and stay until sunset when the crowds thin and the island becomes especially magical. Capri can easily be visited as a day trip, but an overnight stay lets you experience its quieter, more authentic side after the day visitors leave.

Must-see attractions

Blue Grotto – The island’s famous sea cave glows with an incredible electric-blue light when sunlight enters through an underwater opening. Visit early in the morning when the sea is calm to avoid long waits.

Faraglioni – These towering rock formations are Capri’s iconic landmark. The best way to see them is on a boat tour that passes through the natural arch in one of the rocks.

Piazzetta di Capri – Known as the “living room of the world,” this lively square is perfect for people-watching, coffee, and soaking up the atmosphere.

Gardens of Augustus – Beautiful terraced gardens with panoramic views of the sea, the Faraglioni, and the famous winding Via Krupp below.

Villa Jovis – Explore the ruins of Emperor Tiberius’ palace while enjoying some of the island’s finest views.

Explore Anacapri – Many visitors prefer Anacapri because it is quieter and more authentic.

Monte Solaro – Ride the chairlift for breathtaking 360° views over Capri, the Bay of Naples, and the Amalfi Coast.

Villa San Michele – The former home of Swedish physician Axel Munthe with beautiful gardens and spectacular vistas.

Beaches and swimming

Marina Piccola – The island’s best-known beach with calm, crystal-clear water.

• Swim from the rocks near Punta Carena Lighthouse, a favorite spot for sunsets.

Take a boat tour

A boat trip around the island is one of the highlights of any visit. You’ll see: the Faraglioni – Hidden caves and grottoes – Natural Arch – White and Green Grottos – Dramatic limestone cliffs

Walks

• Walk from Capri town to the Natural Arch.

• Stroll Via Tragara for unforgettable views of the Faraglioni.

• If open, walk down the famous Via Krupp.

Food to try

Don’t miss: – Caprese salad (created on Capri) – Ravioli Capresi – Fresh seafood – Lemon cake (Torta Caprese al limone) – Traditional chocolate Torta Caprese – Limoncello made from Capri lemons

Best viewpoints – Monte Solaro – Gardens of Augustus – Belvedere Tragara – Punta Carena Lighthouse at sunset

Ischia

Ischia is one of Italy’s most beautiful islands, famous for its thermal hot springs, volcanic landscapes, beaches, gardens, and authentic villages. Begin your visit in Ischia Porto, the island’s lively harbor, where you can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy cafés, browse local shops, and watch the ferries come and go. Walk or drive to the historic village of Ischia Ponte and cross the stone bridge to the magnificent Castello Aragonese, a medieval fortress with churches, gardens, museums, and spectacular views over the Bay of Naples. Spend time relaxing at Maronti Beach, the island’s largest beach, or visit the quieter beaches of Citara and San Montano.

Experience Ischia’s world-famous thermal waters at Poseidon Thermal Gardens or Negombo Thermal Gardens, where you can enjoy naturally heated pools overlooking the sea. Visit the stunning La Mortella Gardens, considered one of Italy’s finest botanical gardens, with exotic plants, waterfalls, orchids, and peaceful walking paths. Explore the charming town of Forio, known for its whitewashed streets, artisan shops, seaside promenade, and beautiful sunsets. See the picturesque village of Sant’Angelo, a colorful pedestrian-only fishing village with elegant boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and crystal-clear water. Hike or take a taxi to the summit of Monte Epomeo for panoramic views across the entire island and the Gulf of Naples.

Visit Lacco Ameno to see the famous Fungo, a mushroom-shaped volcanic rock rising from the sea, and explore the quiet streets of Casamicciola Terme, known for its healing thermal springs. Enjoy a boat tour around the island to discover hidden coves, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs that are inaccessible by road. Finish your day by tasting local specialties such as Ischia-style rabbit, fresh seafood, handmade pasta, local cheeses, limoncello, and wines produced from the island’s volcanic soil while watching the sunset over the Tyrrhenian Sea.