Ciao! My name is Costantino Esposito. I was born in Capri 36 years ago and have always lived on this beautiful Italian island. I work in a family hotel which was built by my grandparents in 1952 – the Hotel Gatto Bianco – just 150 metres away from the famous Piazzetta square of Capri.
Photography has been a big part of my life since I was little. Of course, living in Capri makes taking photos easy as the landscape here is stunning. Capri is one of the most popular destinations in Italy because it combines sea, culture, history, landscapes and social life into a small package.
Living in Capri is like a dream, although things become different in winter. The best thing about living here is being able to reach quiet and secluded places even when Capri is full of tourists in the height of summer.
Fascinating History of Capri
Capri has a long and fascinating history. The most famous stories are linked to the former Roman emperors Tiberius and Augustus who chose Capri as a place of pleasure and command for the Roman Empire. They built various villas and houses including the important Villa Jovis and Bagni di Tiberio.
The latter is now a beach club and seafood restaurant which you can visit. Numerous artists and painters have also passed through Capri over the years and have left indelible marks on the island with beautiful works of art that can now be admired in the most prestigious villas and hotels.
Favourite Place: Parco Astarita
My favourite place in Capri is “Parco Astarita” which is located just before Villa Jovis. It’s a special place for me even in the moments when Capri is full of tourists. There is an oasis of peace to be found here with breathtaking views of Casa Malaparte and the Faraglioni rock formations to the south.
You can also make out Mount Vesuvius to the north and the beautiful Positano to the east. So from Parco Astarita you have an almost 360 degree view of the Gulf of Naples and Salerno. Believe me – it’s a wonderful spot!
10 Best Things To Do in Capri
There is no doubting the pure beauty of Capri – from the curated gardens, steep cliffs, gorgeous villas and deep blue sea – it really does leave a lasting impression on visitors. Below are my top 10 recommendations for Capri.
1. Sail the Island on a Classic Gozzo Boat
The best way to experience the rugged coast and blue sea of Capri is to go on a private gozzo boat tour. You will have this boat all to yourself (along with an English speaking sailor) and can sail around the beautiful bays, caves and rock formations. Stop for many swims along the way!
2. Explore the “Blue Grotto” Sea Cave
You can choose to visit the Blue Grotto cave on your Gozzo Boat Tour or by going on an excursion with a wooden row boat. Either way, you will get to see this amazing blue cave which is a truly magical place. As you enter, you will pass through darkness until you reach an area lit by azure blue light!
3. Tour Parco Astarita, Villa Jovis & Villa Lysis
This two-and-a-half hour tour takes you uphill to the highest area of Capri. Start from Parco Astarita and continue to the Villa of the Emperor Tiberius with a Liberty-style building and enjoy stunning views of Marina Grande – the main port of Capri. You can choose to do a guided or self-guided tour.
4. Take the Monte Solaro Chairlift to the Top of Capri
Jump on the Monte Solaro Chairlift and reach the highest point of Capri with an incredible view. On one side you can see Anacapri and on the other side the Faraglioni rock formations. At 589 metres above sea level, the views are epic! The walk takes an hour for those who are interested.
5. Spend an Afternoon at Villa San Michele
Villa San Michele is located in Anacapri and was once the home of Swedish doctor and writer Axel Munthe. He came to Capri in 1885 and built his villa on the ruins of an ancient chapel. Discover a museum here and admire the views of the entire Gulf of Naples, Ischia volcanic island and Sorrento.
6. Enjoy a Sunset at the Punta Carena Lighthouse
The Punta Carena Lighthouse is the best place in Capri to enjoy an aperitif (pre-dinner alcoholic drink) while watching the sunset. This lighthouse was built in 1866 and is still active today. Easily accessible three kilometers southwest of Anacapri. Behind the lighthouse is the precipice of Migliera.
7. Walk the Amazing Pizzolungo Nature Pathway
A nature walk that begins in the Piazzetta and ends at Punta Tragara. Along the way you can see the “Arco Naturale”. This is the most scenic and beautiful walk in Capri. The footpath hugs the southern coast and offers amazing views of the sea, the Sorrentine peninsula and Faraglioni.
8. Discover the Old Forts of Capri in Anacapri
Discover the forts of Anacapri on an epic route. Walk through Mediterranean shrubs and see rocky promontories along the way. These forts were built during the Saracen invasions and were turned into artillery redoubts during the Napoleanic wars. The walk is around 5.2 km.
9. Relax at the Piazzetta Square with an Aperitif
Relaxing at the wonderful Piazzetta square is an absolute must-do on any trip to Capri. Just picture yourself ordering a few drinks after an action-packed day sailing the island or exploring the Blue Grotto. There are many fantastic bars and restaurants where you can order delicious Italian cuisine.
10. Visit Saint James’ Charterhouse in Capri
The Charterhouse of St. Giacomo is a 14th century masterpiece comprising three buildings: one which houses the pharmacy and womens church, another for monks and guests, and a third building reserved for a life of seclusion. During the summer, functions and events are held here.
People, Culture & Food of Capri
An adjective that best describes the locals of Capri is “hospitable”. Almost all of us work directly or indirectly in the world of tourism. Many of us are happy to go out of our way to help tourists. I recommend booking a tour with a local guide who can show you the real Capri, away from tourist traps.
Another big part of Capri culture is our gastronomy. The most famous dessert is the “Caprese” – a cake with either chocolate or lemon flavour (I prefer the lemon one). When starting a meal, it’s common to choose ravioli which is a stuffed pasta with caciotta cheese and tomato sauce.
You also have to try Buonocore’s Ice Cream. It’s a historic artisan ice cream shop located on the main street of Capri. As mentioned before, Ristorante Bagni Tiberio is a famous seafood restaurant which serves delicious fresh dishes such as squid with potatoes, a typical Caprese dish.
The other top restaurant of Capri is Da Paolino Restaurant where you can dine under lemon trees in a beautiful atmosphere. Among their typical dishes you find an appetiser called “La Bomba” which is delicious. Finally, visit Molo 20 for the best ravioli served by my chef friend.
Best Places to Stay in Capri
When it comes to the best accommodation options in Capri I am slightly biased. My advice is to stay at Hotel Gatto Bianco. It’s always a pleasure for us to host people in our family-run 4-star hotel. Guests will feel right at home. We are located 150 meters from the square on the main road.
Another very nice hotel is La Minerva. This small family-run boutique hotel has a swimming pool and is also located in the centre. In Capri, there are beautiful villas situated on the south side of the island which offer views of the Faraglioni. However, they tend to have higher prices than hotels.
Need to Know Before you Go
Those coming to Capri should know that there’s a lot more to this destination than just Faraglioni and Blue Grotto. Capri offers nature, culture and tradition with every experience. I recommend spending at least three nights here so you can fully immerse yourself in the island’s atmosphere.
Capri is beautiful in the summer and also during the months of May and September when the crowds aren’t as large. Thanks for reading my blog and I hope to see you here soon. Happy travels everyone!
