If you’re dreaming of bright blue waters, luxury shopping, and jaw-dropping coastal views, spending one day in Capri, Italy should be at the top of your itinerary. This iconic island in the Bay of Naples is the perfect destination for a scenic and unforgettable day trip from the Amalfi Coast or Naples.
My husband and I included a Capri, Italy day trip itinerary from Positano during our week-long Italy adventure—and it was one of our favorite experiences. If you’re short on time, don’t worry: this guide covers the best things to do in Capri on a day trip, including how to get there, what to see, and where to eat. Although I could spend days visiting this beautiful island, I think planning a one day itinerary in Capri will allow you to see and eat plenty!
How to Get to Capri from Positano or Naples
Capri is easily reachable by ferry from Naples, Sorrento, Positano or towns along the Amalfi Coast. Since we were staying in Positano, we bought ferry tickets a day in advance down by the marina. Ferries can book quickly during peak season, so plan ahead. We asked our hotel for a copy of the ferry schedule so we could plan out our day and get tickets for the best times. The earlier you start, the more time you will have to explore!
Travel Time:
The ferry ride from Positano to Capri takes about 45 minutes, but allow a full hour to factor in boarding and disembarking.
Pro Tip: Arrive early. Signage at the marina can be confusing, especially in Positano. Give yourself extra time to find your ferry and where to board.
Transportation Around Capri
Once you arrive at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port, you have several options to explore the island:
- Funicular: A cable tram that takes you to Capri Town at the top of the island.
- Public Buses: Cheap and efficient, great for visiting Anacapri.
- Boat Tours: Ideal for exploring Capri’s famous grottos.
- Walking: If you have time, walking around Capri offers stunning views.
Funicular Tip: Buy tickets near the marina. It runs every 12 minutes and costs around €4 round-trip.
Best Things to Do in Capri on a Day Trip
Here’s how to make the most of your one day in Capri, Italy.
When you get to Capri, you will most likely be dropped off in Marina Grande. From the marina you can plan where you want to spend the rest of your day.
1. Visit the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
Start your day early with a boat tour to the Blue Grotto, Capri’s most famous natural attraction. The glowing blue water inside the cave is surreal and totally worth it. Plus doing this first will ensure you have enough time to fit in your itinerary before you have to catch your ferry back.
- Join a small-group boat tour from Marina Grande
- Bring cash for the additional fee to enter the grotto and tip your guide
- Inside, the rowboat guides sing while navigating through the cave. Truly magical!
There is also a white grotto and a green grotto in Capri. You cannot go inside these grottos but there are boat tours available to take you to see them.
2. Take the Funicular to Capri Town
After your grotto adventure, head back to Marina Grande and take the funicular up to Capri Town. The short ride offers gorgeous hillside views and drops you right into the heart of the action. You will need to grab a ticket for the funicular. These were inexpensive and the tram leaves about every 12 minutes.
3. Explore Shops and Streets in Capri Town
Wander the charming cobblestone streets filled with high-end boutiques like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel. Even if you’re not shopping, the ambiance and Mediterranean gardens make it a lovely place to stroll. The streets are lined with gorgeous flowers, trees and ocean views making plenty of Instagram worthy spots.
4. Enjoy a Scenic Italian Lunch
Capri is packed with fantastic restaurants, especially in Capri Town and Marina Grande. We picked a spot with outdoor seating and indulged in pasta, seafood, and wine. I didn’t research any specific places ahead of time. We just went with the flow and popped into a spot that looked good.
Tip: Prices can be steep, so consider grabbing a small plate and wine if you’re on a budget. You must save room for a scoop of gelato!
5. Take a Short Trip to Anacapri
Hop on a bus or taxi to Anacapri, a quieter and less touristy village just a short ride from Capri Town. This area offers:
- Quirky boutiques and artisan shops
- Beautiful buildings and local charm
- Access to hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints
6. Ride the Monte Solaro Chair Lift
One of the biggest regrets from our trip was not riding the chair lift to Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views over the Bay of Naples, Faraglioni, and beyond.
7. Walk Through the Gardens of Augustus
These peaceful, well-maintaned gardens are just a 10-minute walk from Capri Town. For a small entry fee, you’ll enjoy gorgeous flowers and some of the island’s best coastal views—including a perfect vantage point of the Faraglioni Rocks.
8. View the Iconic Faraglioni Rocks
Capri’s signature rock formations rising from the sea are a must-see and should be at the top of your one day in Capri itinerary. Whether you admire them from a boat, the Gardens of Augustus, or a coastal viewpoint, these majestic pillars are unforgettable.
9. End Your Day at Marina Grande
Before catching your ferry, stroll around Marina Grande. The port is colorful and scenic, and there are plenty of places to grab a final glass of wine, espresso, or gelato. An ideal way to wait for your ferry back to Positano.
Have more time? Here are more ideas for your Capri Itinerary
Although we only had one day in Capri, Italy, there is more we wanted to see! Here’s what we’ll add to our next Capri Italy day trip itinerary from Positano:
- Visit Marina Grande Beach or Torre Saracena
- Take a private boat tour around the Faraglioni
- Visit Villa San Michele in Anacapri
- Spend more time hiking and exploring in Anacapri
Now that I have been to Capri, I would consider staying a night to fully enjoy what the beautiful island has to offer.
Final Thoughts
Even with just 24 hours, you can experience the best things to do in Capri on a day trip. From glowing sea caves and coastal views to luxury shopping and delicious food, this tiny island packs a major punch. Whether you’re coming from Positano or Naples, one day in Capri, Italy is an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.
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It looks absolutely stunning, friend!
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
Make Life Marvelous