Whenever you go to Naples or the Amalfi Coast, everybody tells you, “you must visit Capri”. And once you have been, you understand why this island has been such a magnet to millions of tourists and celebrities for such a long time. The island of Capri is a prominent landmark of the Bay of Naples and because of its proximity to Naples is ideal for a day trip. We visited Capri during our honeymoon to Sorrento 17 years ago but decided to experience the island life and beautiful views once more. No excuses needed to be fair!
Hop On The Ferry To Capri
As Capri is an island, obviously the only way to get here there is by a ferry. There are numerous ferries departing from the Naples terminal every day but be prepared to queue as it gets very busy. The crossing takes about 50 minutes. It can get quite rocky especially if you are on one of the catamaran style boats which is quite fun. They were actually handing out sick bags during our crossing…
The first thing you see when you arrive are the crystal blue waters of sea, ragged mountains in the distance and the rows of houses perched on the side of the hill. The Marina is very busy with people, restaurants and shops and here is where you catch the funicular to Capri Town or Piazzetta. However, there is another way to get to the top. Feeling adventurous, we prepared ourselves to get really sweaty in the heat and started climbing up the narrow path to the square. It was a bit challenging but the hard work was rewarded. We went past some beautiful houses, gardens and shrines which are in abundance in Italy.
Piazzetta, Piazza Umberto Or Capri Town
After about 20 minutes, covered in sweat but happy that our glutes had a good work out, we emerged in the Piazzetta. This is supposed to be the centre stage of Capri and the playground for the rich. The square is where you people watch, spend a small fortune in the designer shops or admire the stunning views of the sea. We left the hustle and bustle of the Piazzetta and decided to explore the other side of the island and, in particular, Augustus Gardens. We walked past massive queues for the best ice cream on the island at Buonocore Gelateria and stood in front of the Quisisana Hotel dreaming of winning the lottery to afford a stay there one day, it looked so lush.
Via Krupp And Augustus Gardens
I have to admit getting over to Augustus Gardens was the main aim of our day trip. We heard that the views were spectacular and we could not have missed it this time. After about 10 minute walk down from the Piazzetta, you get to the end of a track and it is where you enter the green and immaculately maintained gardens. Unfortunately, you can’t walk down via Krupp anymore due to falling rocks but you can clearly see the spectacular hairpin bends from up above.
The gardens and the windy route were designed at the beginning of the century and have been attracting loads of visitors due to its 180 degree views of the island. From the Mount Solaro on the right to famous Faraglioni, the two rock formations sticking out of the sea to the left. The gardens and the views had a massive “wow” factor and we just wanted to stay and enjoy the views forever.
People Watching
After exploring the island and its amazing sights, we were ready for some food and a spot of people watching. We sat in the main square with a cold Nastro Azzurro beer in our hand, nibbling on a piece of torta caprese and just watched the world go by. What a perfect end to our day trip to this beautiful island… well, we still had the sweaty trek down to the port in front of us and a bumpy ferry crossing to look forward to!
Arrivederci Capri! More photos from Capri here.
