Capri Day Trip from the Amalfi Coast: A Complete Guide
Capri floats on the horizon from every Amalfi Coast viewpoint—a limestone jewel that has seduced emperors, artists, and dreamers for millennia. A day trip from the coast offers a taste of the island's legendary glamour, dramatic landscapes, and the famous Blue Grotto. It's one of the essential excursions from your Amalfi Coast stay.
Getting to Capri
From Amalfi: Direct ferries run seasonally (April-October). Journey time approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Multiple daily departures. Cost €20-25 each way.
From Positano: Similar ferry service, slightly shorter journey. Useful if you're visiting Positano that day anyway.
From Ravello: No direct ferries. Take bus to Amalfi (20 minutes), then ferry to Capri. Total journey approximately 2 hours.
By private boat: The ultimate experience. Charter includes the voyage, circumnavigation of Capri, swimming stops, and flexible timing. See our boat tour guide.
A Suggested Day Itinerary
8:30am: Early ferry from Amalfi. Arrive before the cruise ship crowds.
10:00am: Arrive Marina Grande. Take the funicular up to Capri town. Explore the Piazzetta, window-shop the designer boutiques.
11:00am: Walk to the Giardini di Augusto for stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks. Optionally descend Via Krupp to Marina Piccola.
12:30pm: Lunch. Either a stylish terrace restaurant in Capri town or a simpler meal in Anacapri.
2:00pm: Bus to Anacapri. Take the chairlift to Monte Solaro for 360° views. Visit Villa San Michele gardens.
4:30pm: Return to Marina Grande. Optional: Blue Grotto visit (if sea conditions allow and lines aren't too long).
6:00pm: Evening ferry back to Amalfi. Sunset over the sea.
The Blue Grotto
The Grotta Azzurra is Capri's most famous attraction—a sea cave where sunlight creates an ethereal blue glow. Entrance requires transferring to small rowing boats. The experience is brief (5 minutes inside) but magical.
Practicalities: Weather dependent (rough seas close access). Long queues in summer. Additional cost beyond ferry. Visit early morning or late afternoon to minimize waiting.
Tips for Your Visit
- Book ferry tickets in advance during high season
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—Capri involves stairs
- Capri town is expensive; Anacapri offers better value for meals
- The island is walkable; you don't need to hire cars or taxis
- Start early to maximize your time before returning
Returning to Ravello
After a day exploring Capri's glamour and crowds, returning to Ravello's tranquility feels like coming home. The contrast highlights what makes your hilltop base special: space, calm, and views that rival anything Capri offers—without the crowds.