Capri

The island of Capri in the Gulf of Naples has been a place of longing since antiquity. Emperor Tiberius ruled the Roman Empire from here, and even today, the island exudes a touch of glamour and luxury that has made it a jet-set destination since the 1950s.

Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) ★★

The island's most famous natural wonder: A sea cave whose water glows in an unreal neon blue due to refracted sunlight. Access only by rowboat (15 €, plus boat trip to the grotto from about 18 €). Closed during rough seas (often in winter). Touristy, expensive, but truly magical.

Capri & Anacapri

The island has two towns: Capri (glamorous, expensive, the famous Piazzetta with its cafés) and Anacapri (quieter, more authentic, the chairlift to Monte Solaro). The Monte Solaro (589 m, chairlift 12 € return) offers the best panoramic view. The Via Krupp (spectacular serpentine path down the cliffs) is open again after restoration.

Budget tip: Capri is absurdly expensive — a cappuccino on the Piazzetta costs 7–10 €, lunch from 30 €. Bring provisions from Naples and enjoy the island as a hiking destination instead of a shopping destination. The hike to the Arco Naturale and the Grotta di Matermania is free and spectacular.