Capri is more than just an island — it’s a lifestyle, a mood, and a little slice of paradise in the Bay of Naples.
It’s a little fancy, a little ‘haute’ but it has that typical Italian charm that make it a ‘must visit’.
Whether you’re here for a day or a week, the island’s beauty is best experienced slowly, with curiosity and a sense of wonder.
Before you visit the island these are some things to know:
Me and my husband visited Capri on our Italian road trip. Note that no cars are allowed on the island which means you need to leave it parked in one of Amalfi coast’s towns. We were staying in Positano before that but the parking there was so expensive we opted to leave it in Sorrento. The Parking company offered a shuttle to the port from which we boarded the ferry. From the port you take a funicular to the top of Capri, so you need to get in a long line for the ticket and then a long line to the funicular. My tip – one person should get the tickets and everyone else in line to the funicular (both is quite a wait if you come with a full ferry!).
After that – you’ve arrived!
We stayed in Capri for 3 days and I think it’s enough to get a taste of la dolce vita. I compiled the following list with things that to me felt like they were typical or special to Capri and would recommend them to anyone visiting the island for the very first time.
So if you want to capture the true magic of Capri, here are 4 things you absolutely must do.
1. 🚤 Rent a Private Boat and Explore the Coastline
Capri’s heart beats by the sea. Renting a private boat (we rented it with a skipper and called him ‘Captain’) lets you circle the island and uncover its hidden treasures. Note that the sea can be a bit choppy and in these cases you won’t be able to enter some of the coves. It’s exactly what happened to us; the tide was too high and the waves a bit too big to enter the blue cave. Nonetheless it was an amazing experience, the Captain pointed out all the main attractions on the island and even sang ‘Opera style’ in one of the coves, so it echoed beautifully. Mamma mia! What an experience. Half way around the island – near Faraglioni Rocks, we had a quick dip in the sea (they filmed the commercial for Dolce Gabbana Light Blue perfume here) and the tour was almost done.
SO the main attractions on your boat tour should be:
- Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) – glowing world of electric-blue water (only if the sea isn’t choppy).
- Faraglioni Rocks – iconic sea stacks where local legend says a kiss under the arch brings good luck.
- Secret Coves – tiny beaches and turquoise swimming spots you’ll never see from land.
Pack a basket of fresh focaccia, mozzarella, and fruit from the local market, and let the waves set the rhythm for your perfect Capri day. The experience is quite expensive, and by all means you can share the boat, but for us it was magical being on the boat all by ourselves – it really was the ultimate pampering.
2. 🏛️ Visit Villa Lysis — Capri’s Hidden Gem
High above Capri Town sits Villa Lysis, a place where history, art, and nature meet. Built in 1905 by the eccentric Count Jacques d’Adelswärd-Fersen, the villa has a fascinating past filled with romance, scandal, and creativity.
Today, it’s one of the island’s most peaceful escapes. Wander through its marble halls, admire the Art Nouveau design, and step onto the terrace for jaw-dropping views of the coastline. If you’re looking for a quieter, soulful side of Capri away from the boutiques and crowds, Villa Lysis is your haven.
Just a tiny reminder to check opening hours before you leave your hotel, because it’s quite a walk to get there and we missed it the first day for mere 5 minutes. We did return the next day and were not disappointed. The garden, the interior and the views are just breathtaking. From there you can visit ruins of Tiberius’ Villa Jovis which is another hidden gem for history lovers (like my husband). There is an entry fee of 6 euros and bring you own water as they don’t sell any there (you will need to walk for 15 min to the nearest bar).
Villa Jovis has been featured in the latest movie Another simple favour, if you’ve seen it (spoiler: the wedding is set there).
3. ☀️ Sunbathe Like the Locals
Capri is famous for its glamorous beach clubs, where sunbathing is an art form. Lounge on a deckchair perched on rocky terraces, dive into sparkling turquoise water, and soak up the island’s dolce vita vibe. We chose Marina Piccola and we walked to the beach – it’s quite a steep walk. After the sunset I took the bus (waited in line again!) and my husband walked up back to Capri town and still ended up waiting for me. In any case there are some nice beaches on Capri:
- Marina Piccola is perfect for sun and sea views of the Faraglioni.
- La Fontelina Beach Club offers chic vibes and incredible seafood lunches.
- For something simple, find a public lido and stretch out with locals.
Whether you go luxe or low-key, there’s nothing more Capri than an afternoon of sun, sea, and slow living.
4. 🍋 Try Lemon Sorbetto — Capri’s Zesty Signature
When life gives you lemons, Capri makes it unforgettable. The island is famous for its giant, fragrant lemons, and the best way to taste their sunshine is in a chilled lemon sorbetto. You’ll find it served in little cups from street vendors, elegant cafés, and even inside a hollowed-out lemon for extra flair (it’s sooo instagramable).
It’s refreshing, tangy, and the perfect cool-down after climbing Capri’s steep lanes or basking in the afternoon sun. Pair it with a glass of local limoncello if you want the true “Capri zest” experience. Simple, sweet, and oh-so-Italian — this is a must on your island checklist.
🌸 Final Thought
Capri’s magic lies not in rushing to see it all, but in savoring just a few unforgettable experiences. Sail into hidden grottos, lose yourself in the beauty of Villa Lysis, and bask in the golden Mediterranean sun.
With an Ikigai mindset, these aren’t just activities — they’re little rituals of joy, connection, and presence.
For more inspiration visit my Pinterest page:
https://www.pinterest.com/ikigaimind