My trip to Capri, Italy was exciting from the start as I took a random boat rental from the coast of Positano on a whim. The islands breathtaking beauty and charming atmosphere had my jaw dropped from the moment it came into view over the waters horizon to the moment my feet stepped on land. I had a couple days to spend on the island, where I explored the rugged coastline, dotted with picturesque coves and hidden grottoes. The mesmerizing Blue Grotto left me in awe with its vibrant blue waters. I hiked up to the Gardens of Augustus, where I soaked in the panoramic views of the turquoise sea and the iconic Faraglioni rock formations. The quaint streets of Capri Town were perfect for wandering and checking out the little boutiques and cafes along the way. I savored the island's fresh seafood dishes, Caprese Ravioli and indulged in the famous limoncello. The warmth and friendliness of the locals made me feel right at home. Overall, it felt like a magical escape to a Mediterranean paradise.
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Some attractions and things to do when visiting Capri:
Enter the Blue Grotto on a small canoe type boat that flings you through a hole on the side of the island. There is usually a line of boats waiting to take turns and a small fee to enter. It may look intimidating to enter, but it is all worthwhile once inside listening to the calming acoustics and seeing the glow of the light in the water below.
Visit the Green Grotto and take a swim. This grotto is generally less crowded and has a more open air feel to it, but is still incredibly beautiful.
Everyone MUST take a boat to the Faraglioni rocks as one of the most famous and iconic views of Italy. The Faraglioni rocks are 3 enormous natural rocks sticking out of the water creating a beautiful view and an arch in the center rock that the boats can pass through.
Visit these lush green flowered gardens offering gorgeous winding paths with stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks and the Marina Piccola.
Take the chairlift up to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the island.
Stroll through the charming town with its quaint streets, colorful buildings, and cute shops.
Visit the historic house museum with a beautiful garden and an extensive art collection. Definitely is worth a stop over, not only is the artwork amazing, but the property has been voted as one of Italy's most beautiful gardens.
Hike the trail, in Italian Sentiero dei Fortini, that runs along the island's western coast, passing by ancient fortifications and offering stunning views. I highly recommend this walk if you have time as it really emphasizes the natural beauty of the coastline and the historic structures including Pino Fort, Mesola Fort and Orrico Fort
Relax and enjoy beach with its clear turquoise waters and picturesque backdrop.
Some local foods and drinks to experience while in Capri:
Local Food of Capri
Ravioli Caprese
Local variation of ravioli filled with caciotta cheese, marjoram, Parmigiano-Reggiano and garnished with fresh basil leaves. This delicious dish is a must try in Capri.
Insalata Caprese
Simple salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with olive oil.
Scialatielli ai frutti di mare
Type of long, thick and wide pasta (popular in the Campania region) with seafood, tomatoes, and garlic. Fruttie di mare translates to fruit of the sea, which will likely be a collection of different seafoods, possibly including prawn, clams, calamari, mussels etc.
Local Drinks of Capri
Limoncello
Sweet, lemon-flavored liqueur made from local Capri lemons.
Prosecco
Sparkling wine produced in the nearby region of Veneto, often served as an aperitif.
Some local Capri restaurant recommendations:
The best ravioli caprese i had while in Capri was Ristorante Buca di Bacco with absolutely gorgeous views
- Link to local restaurants of Capri
Additional summary:
Capri, a beautiful island located off the coast of southern Italy, is a popular destination with a rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and a vibrant culture. The island's history dates back to ancient Roman times, with landmarks like the Villa Jovis and the Blue Grotto that attract visitors from around the world. Its architecture is a blend of traditional Mediterranean and Italian styles, with colorful houses and narrow streets that create a charming atmosphere. Italian cuisine is world-renowned, and Capri is a food lover's paradise with popular dishes like seafood pasta, lemon granita, and Caprese salad that are sure to please your palate. Capri's culture is celebrated in its many festivals and events, such as the Capri Tango Festival and the Anacapri Music Festival, that showcase the island's unique traditions and customs. The island's natural beauty, with its crystal-clear waters and scenic cliffs, is also a major draw for visitors. Whether you're looking to explore Capri's history, indulge in its delicious cuisine, or soak up its vibrant culture, the island offers an abundance of experiences that are sure to enchant and delight visitors.