Picturesque in the truest sense, Capri brings to you a canvas coloured with incredibly blue water, surreal cliff sides, pine-tree dotted landscapes, and hillsides strewn with bougainvillea-laden villas! Capri is a scenic highlight along the gulf of Naples, and must rank high up on your list of day trips from Rome. Let us help you plan the perfect day trip from Rome to Capri with information on how to get there, what to explore, what to eat, where to stay, and other interesting tips.
Capri - A Gem on the Gulf of Naples
Legend has it, that when Roman Emperor Tiberius first visited this elysian island, he was smitten at first sight and decided to settle there in an instant. Such is the captivating beauty of Capri, a picturesque island with a cove-studded coastline that makes it every vacationer’s paradise.
The island is located off the Sorrento Peninsula in the Tyrrhenian sea and can only be reached by boat from Naples. So, you'll be making a pitstop at yet another scenic Italian wonder on this trip.
Delve into the fabled history of Capri that dates back to the ancient Neolithic era.
Not only does Capri cater to history & nature lovers, but to foodies as well. It is home to authentic, delectable Italian cuisine -- don’t miss out on pizzas, Caprese salads, chocolate cake and of course, lip-smacking Gelato in a burst of flavors!
If you’re planning a day-trip from Rome to Capri, here’s everything you need to know about travel options, must-see spots and other travel hacks.
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Capri is reachable only by boat, making for an easy day trip from Naples.
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Kick back and work your tan on the sandy shores.
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Gasp at the wondrous rock formations on the island.
Why take a day trip from Rome to Capri?
Whether you’re looking for serenity on a long hike or an electrifying night out, Capri offers something for every wanderer. Here are a few of the many reasons to visit Capri:
A myriad of natural wonders
Whether it's the electric-blue waters of the Blue Grotto, the massive rock formation of Faraglioni, the serene gardens of Augustus, or the buzzing beach of Marina Piccola, there's a host of natural wonders for you to gape at.
Hot tip: they double as great backdrops for your social media pictures!
Brush shoulders with a celebrity
Every summer, the Marina Grande is lined with the world's most expensive yachts. Capri being one of the most visited star-studded destinations, you never know who you'll bump into while here. Spot Beyoncé’s yacht or see Lenny Kravitz perform at a nightclub: Capri is nothing if unpredictable!
You'll fall in love with the local cuisine
The vine-ripened tomatoes, milky mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil is what gives the Caprese salad its finishing touches. You'll find this on every menu in Capri as well, and for good reason. But if you're not feeling for a salad, try the authentic Italian pizza cooked in a dome-shaped wood-fired oven.
Choose from many nature walks
Capri is littered with great hiking trails and walking paths. Choose from wooden trails, paved paths, and a series of steps to get your cardio in on your time off. Find yourself walking in an ancient forest grotto with striking views of the coastline enveloping around you!
Buzzing nightlife
The late-night town of Capri lets you wander the streets even during the wee hours of the day. The best nightclubs open only after midnight, so you'll get a slice of the island's nightlife if you're really up for it (literally).
Top things to do in Capri
Day Trip Itinerary
Allow us to help plan your Rome to Capri day trip itinerary:
1Blue Grotto
On a wooden rowboat, you'll be taken through a stone portal to a meter-high cave mouth. Enter a sparkling cavern with azure blue light brilliantly reflecting off the stone walls. Find out firsthand why the Grotta Azzurra is Capri's most sought-after attraction.
2Gardens of Augustus
For the classic shot of the sea with the Faraglioni in the backdrop, head to the Gardens of Augustus. This viewpoint is only a stone's throw away from the Charterhouse of San Giacomo and offer quite the experience with its flower-decked terraces and views of the Faraglioni & the Bay of Marina Piccola.
3Monte Solaro
Monte Solaro offers the best views of Capri- after all, it is the highest viewing point on the island. Stand at 589 meters above sea level and peer down at the Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and the far-off mountains of Calabria.
4Villa Jovis
Villa Jovis was built in the 1st century B.C and was chosen for its position along the edge of the cliff, promising security and privacy- both super important to the Emperor Tiberius. You'll find this at the end of Viale Amedeo Maturi, with multiple steps with marble slabs.
5Shopping at Via Camerelle
Via Camerelle is every shopaholic's dream with its high concentration of designer shops and boutiques here. Go on a shopping spree and buy yourself what you want (not need) as you hop from one boutique to the next.
6Gelato at Buonocore Gelateria
Even though every town in Italy has a gelateria with a special take on the world-famous dessert, you must give the gelato at Buonocore Gelateria a try. Strawberry and crema flavors are known to be beloved the most (by locals and tourists alike)- what do you think?
7Faraglioni
Faraglioni is one of the most beautiful natural rock formations on the island, and one of Capri's most sought-after sights. Forming one of the world's most astonishing landscapes, you'll find yourself taking pictures to get the Faraglioni in your background. Take a boat trip to get closer views of the landmark.
8Marina Piccola
Marina Piccola is the ideal spot to spend your day if you’re looking for a day of fun under the sun. It is located directly opposite the Faraglioni, and is therefore, super accessible. What's intriguing about this beach is that mythical legends suggest that the overlooking cliff was once inhabited by bewitching sirens.
Rome to Capri: step-by-step guide on travel options
Being an island, Capri does not have an airport. The only way to reach the shore is by ferry/boat. However, you can take a train, bus or car from Rome to Naples -- the closest town to Capri -- and board a ferry to the island.
If you want to learn more about getting from Naples to Capri, check out our comprehensive day trip guide from Naples to Capri.
| Mode of Travel | Time | Cost | Best For | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 3-4 hours | from €10 | Convenient route | Rome to Naples |
| Bus | 3 hours | from €9 | Cheapest route | Rome to Naples |
| Car | 2.5 hours | Approx. €37 | Scenic route | Rome to Naples |
| Taxi Cab | 2.5 hours | €350- €400 | Convenient ride | Rome to Naples |
| Ferry | 50-80 minutes | from €15 | Only public route | Naples to Capri |
| Helicopter | 20 min | €1000 | Fastest route | Rome to Capri |
Rome to Naples by train
If you plan on traveling directly from Fiumicino Airport in Rome without stopping in the city, hop on to the Leonardo Express shuttle to the Roma Termini train station. From there, you can take a direct train to Naples.
At the Roma Termini station, you have three train options to arrive in Naples:
- Eurostar Freccia Rossa (TAV): This is the fastest train, at a little over an hour to reach Naples from Rome -- however, it is also the most expensive, at €40
- Intercity train: This is the most economical option that takes about two hours to reach Naples and costs €20.
- The Interregionali: While cheap at just €10, this train takes about four hours (since it stops at every station) and is not ideal for those looking to spend just a day in Capri
Rome to Naples by bus
Travelling to Naples from Rome is cheapest by bus. The journey takes up to three hours and a one-way ticket costs between €9 and €12. You can board a bus at the Rome Tiburtina bus station and get off at the Metropark Centrale in Naples. Purchase tickets at the bus station or on the Flix Bus website.
Rome to Naples by car
Renting a car is a convenient option to traverse the 225km distance between Rome and Naples; the journey between both cities will ideally take about 2.5 hours. However, this option is best if you plan to stay in Naples and take a day-trip to Capri. Or else, finding a parking spot in the crowded city is challenging.
Hiring a taxi from Fiumicino airport, the journey would cost between €350 and €400 on average.
Naples to Capri by ferry
After arriving in Naples, there are two major ports from where you can board a ferry towards Capri: Molo Beverello and Calata di Massa.
Take a local bus, subway or taxi to either of the two ports. The slow and regular ferries depart from Calata di Massa port and costs about €15. The journey varies from 50 to 80 minutes, depending on whether you opt for the slow or regular ferry. If you prefer a faster journey, hop onto a ferry at the Molo Beverello port and you can reach Capri in under 40 minutes.
While you can buy tickets for your journey at the ports itself, a better option would be to book them online so as to avoid a situation where tickets are sold out. Pro tip: July and August are the busiest months of the year, so book your tickets online to avoid long queues. Stay updated with ferry timings from both ports to plan a seamless travel.
Rome to Capri by helicopter
The fastest way to reach Capri from Rome by far is the helicopter -- and also the most expensive. The journey takes about 20 minutes, and prices start from around €1000. These helicopter trips usually include a private pick up and drop from the airport to the landing point in Capri, plus a private drop to your hotel on the island.
Getting around in Capri
There is little to no traffic on Capri, so moving around by taxi or a minibus shouldn’t be much of a hassle. The quickest and most convenient way to get around Capri is by taxi. The taxi service in Capri is reliable and there are plenty of convertible luxury taxis to take you around town in style. Public buses are also a good option: they are more economically feasible and they run around the entire island, but are often packed with tourists and locals.
Where can I eat in Capri?
Here is a list of must-visit eateries in Capri with our recommended must-try dishes:
A restaurant decorated with fishnets and seashells, you'll feel the rustic-marine vibes as soon as you enter. The terrace views of the sea will have you feeling at peace all at once. Try the stuffed squid ink raviolli and the seafood risotto- two must-try dishes here.
This elegant restaurant is tucked between Capri's main square and the Gardens of Augustus, making it easily accessible. Facing the Marina Piccola, you're promised great beach-side views. Seasonal dishes brimming with Mediterranean flavors are paired with great regional wines for your benefit.
Step out onto the terrace and drink in views of the Faraglioni from this restaurant. Slightly pricier than the other restaurants, Terrazza Brunella's pride and glory is its mastery over seafood-based pasta dishes like prawns with cognac and Chateaubriand.
Enjoy this family-run establishment with spectacular panoramic views of Capri. Every dish is made from homemade ingredients: home-grown vegetables and in-house wine speak for the quality of this restaurant's food. Try their spaghetti alla chiummenzana, pollo al mattone, or the rabbit cacciatore, each better than the other.
A cute little establishment at the feet of the Punta Crena lighthouse, Lido del Faro is known for its seafood dishes. Order the stuffed ravioli with clams and pumpkin among other delectable delights as you gaze out at the ample views of the stunning cove.
Where can I stay in Capri?
Tired and weary after a day of spirited sightseeing? Check into a hotel for the night and rejuvenate! Here are some of our recommendations:
Enjoy Capri-styled tiled floors and pleasant furnishings everywhere you turn at this hotel. You're also exposed to some great views of the city from your room and balcony.
Starts from €100/night
Great value for money
This hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Capri, making it super accessible to attractions nearby. Enjoy spacious rooms and incredible views from your balcony.
Starts from €792/night
Closest to city
Bask in the glitz and glamor of this 5-star establishment and feel the old-world allure as you walk into your room. It's must-try restaurant also offers great views of Mt. Vesuvius.
Starts from $3200/night
For a good splurge
Best time to visit Capri
Ideally, the best time to visit Capri is during the spring and fall seasons, when the sun isn’t blazing on you and right before the chill settles in. July and August are the busiest -- and most expensive -- months, with tourists flooding in from around the world. If you’re looking for a peaceful hike or the opportunity to calmly explore the island while not splurging, May-June and August-September would be your best bet.
Shopping in Capri
Take home a piece of Capri with you to remember this incredible city by- nothing beats a memory like a long-lasting souvenir.
Must-buys in Capri: a bottle of Limoncello liquor, a pair of Canfora Capri Sandals, and a Capri bell!
- Did you know that the classic lemon-liquor of Limoncello was founded in Capri following a traditional recipe? Pick up a bottle to reminisce the tangy flavors of Capri or gift your friends a bottle to let them know what they're missing!
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis made the Canfora Capri Sandals world-renowned, and for good reason. These sandals are ridiculously comfortable (and let's face it- incredibly fun to say). Add an exotic touch to your shoe rack back home with a pair from an original Capri boutique!
- If you're looking for some good luck, you've found it: the Capri Bells are slightly lesser-known than Limoncello and the sandals, but are connsidered a traditional good luck charm by the locals.
Tips for your Capri day trip
- Your trip to Capri is incomplete without three main souvenirs: your own artisan perfume, limoncello (a wicked liqueur), and a pair of local, hand-stitched sandals
- The best way to move around the island is on foot. Cars are rarely used and access is limited in most parts of the town
- Make sure that bookings for stay are confirmed in advance. During peak seasons, it is close to impossible to find a place to stay at a reasonable price. Alternatively, if you’re worried about burning a hole through your pocket due to hotel prices in Capri, check for cheaper accommodation in Anacapri
- Carry plenty of sunscreen! You’ll be walking in the sun through the day, don’t risk sunburn
- Local groceries and small cafes offer small, quick bites at a reasonable price. This should keep you going through the day
- At the ports in Naples, you can be charged a small fee for surplus baggage. Make sure to carry extra cash, i.e., local currency, at all times
- During summers, there’s a party held every Sunday at the beaches. Ask locals around to reach the party location
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