As soon as you arrive in Capri, stepping off the boat at the Marina Grande port, you’re immediately struck by the many attractions to visit. Between the splendid sea, the streets of the town, natural wonders, and its rich cultural heritage, the island offers a multitude of experiences. Capri is truly a special place where anyone can find their perfect escape. However, for visitors with limited time, the question arises: “What should I see in Capri in one day?” Here are five must-see places, ranging from the most famous to the lesser-known, which will make your day on the island unforgettable!
Strolling Through the Famous Piazzetta
The heart of Capri’s social and religious life is the Piazzetta; its historic bell tower marks the island’s time, and writer Edwin Cerio referred to it as the “Salotto del Mondo” (Salon of the World). The Piazzetta has evolved over the centuries, starting as a Roman forum, transitioning into a large rustic courtyard in the year 1000, and later becoming a religious space at the end of the 1600s. It wasn’t until the discovery of the Blue Grotto in 1826 that the square started to take on a commercial and tourist character. Today, its function changes with the seasons: in winter, locals meet here; in summer, tourists dominate, fully aware that the true essence of the island is hidden within the Piazzetta’s beautiful views. It’s a must-see stop for anyone wondering what to see in Capri in a day!
Immerse Yourself in the Green Beauty of the Augustus Gardens
If you only have a few hours to explore Capri, a visit to this small green gem nestled by the sea is a must. The Augustus Gardens overlook Marina Piccola, the Faraglioni, and the spectacular winding road of Via Krupp. The gardens consist of a series of flower-filled terraces that offer views of the Certosa di San Giacomo, Mount Tuoro, Mount Tiberio, and Mount San Michele.
Founded in the early 20th century by German industrialist Friedrich Alfred Krupp, the gardens were designed by engineer Emilio Meyer as a green oasis, and today, many of the plant species present on the island can still be admired. They were donated to the municipality of Capri in 1918. The best times to visit the gardens are early in the morning or late in the afternoon when there are fewer crowds. Entry costs only 1 euro, and the gardens are open from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM during high season (April to October), and from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM in the off-season (November to March).
The Unique and Mystical Experience of the Blue Grotto
No list of what to see in Capri in one day would be complete without mentioning the Blue Grotto, Capri’s most famous cave and one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. The Blue Grotto is a 20-meter deep and 60-meter long karstic cavity, accessible through a small opening in the rock just a meter above sea level, making access only possible under the right weather conditions.
Discovered by German painter Augustus Kopisch in 1826, it quickly became an inspiration for writers, musicians, and poets. Since 1960, important archaeological finds have been made within the grotto, many of which are displayed in the Casa Rossa Museum in Anacapri.
Its name comes from the intense blue and silver reflections that illuminate the cave’s ceiling and walls when entering. Interestingly, for many centuries, the locals feared the cave, believing it to be haunted by demons and witches, perhaps because of its eerie blue color, which they associated with maleficence and the devil.
Admire the Faraglioni at Sunset
The Faraglioni are three sea stacks that are arguably the most famous rock formations in the world, first mentioned by the poet Virgil in the Aeneid as “Sirenum Scopuli.” Did you know that each of them has its own name and distinctive characteristics?
The first one, connected to the mainland, is called “Stella” and reaches an impressive height of 110 meters. The second, known as “Faraglione di Mezzo,” is distinguished by its famous arch. The last one, called “Faraglione di Fuori” or “Lo Scopolo,” is also home to the famous Blue Lizard, one of Capri’s symbols.
Watching the Faraglioni at sunset is a truly unforgettable experience.
A Dive into History at Villa Jovis
Our final suggestion for what to see in Capri in a day is this cultural gem, which is also an important relic of Roman civilization. Villa Jovis is one of the twelve villas built on Capri by Emperor Tiberius, as described by historians Tacitus and Suetonius. Constructed in the 1st century AD on the island’s easternmost promontory, the villa spans about 7,000 square meters, with gardens, terraces, viewpoints, and nymphs that adhere to Roman architectural style.
The view from Villa Jovis is one of the most beautiful on the island, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Gulf of Naples, the Gulf of Salerno, and the Cilento region.
This article was written by Stefano D’Alessandro.
