The Perfect Day Trip to Capri from Amalfi or Positano: A Complete Itinerary

Just off the stunning Amalfi Coast in Italy lies Capri, a notorious island known for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and sparkling blue waters. Famous for its luxurious accommodations, charming piazzas, and natural wonders like the Blue Grotto, Capri has long been a favorite destination for travelers. 

To be honest, I was a little underwhelmed by Capri overall – it’s undeniably beautiful, but it felt quite crowded and touristy compared to other parts of the Amalfi Coast. That said, I’m still so glad I went to experience its famous grottoes, stunning sea views, and, of course, the iconic ‘Tunnel of Love.’ If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast, I still think it’s definitely worth a visit!

Capri is an easy day trip from Amalfi or Positano. With frequent ferry connections, you can set out in the morning and be exploring the island in under an hour. Whether you’re looking to experience its vibrant town, panoramic views, or crystal-clear coves, a day in Capri offers a perfect mix of sightseeing and leisure.

Here is how to have the perfect day trip to Capri!

1. Take the Ferry to Capri

The easiest way to reach Capri from the Amalfi Coast is by ferry, with departures available from both Amalfi and Positano. Ferries run frequently, especially during the summer months, making it convenient to plan your trip.

Where to Catch the Ferry

• From Amalfi: Head to the Amalfi ferry terminal, where several operators offer routes to Capri.
• From Positano: The ferry departs from the small port at Spiaggia Grande, the town’s main beach.

Ferry Schedule & Tickets

Ferries typically run from early morning until late afternoon, with more frequent departures in peak season (April–October). Ticket prices range from €25–€35 one way, depending on the company and departure location. It’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance during summer, as ferries can sell out quickly. I recommend booking through Ferryhopper! For this itinerary, you will want to be on the first ferry out, which will depart at around 8:20am. Book your return ride for 5:00pm or later, depending on personal preference.

How Long is the Ferry Ride?

If you depart from Amalfi, you can expect to be on the boat for around 1 hour. The ferries typically stop in Amalfi and then Positano. From Positano it’s about 30 minutes to Capri.

What to expect on the journey

The ferry ride itself is part of the adventure! As you cruise across the crystal-clear Tyrrhenian Sea, you will enjoy stunning views of the Amalfi Coast’s cliffs, charming coastal villages, and possibly even the famous Faraglioni rock formations in the distance. Grab a seat on the open deck for the best panoramic views and have your camera ready—this is one of the most scenic ferry rides in Italy! Once you arrive at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port, it’s time to start exploring the island.

2. Go on a Cave (Grotto) Boat Tour

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Capri is exploring its famous sea grottoes, where sunlight hits the water to create stunning shades of blue, green, and white. The most famous of these is the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), but there are also the Green Grotto, White Grotto, and several other hidden sea caves worth visiting.

The best way to experience Capri’s grottoes is by hopping on a boat tour. Instead of just seeing the island from land, you’ll sail aboard a traditional Capri gozzo boat, guided by an expert local captain who will share fascinating stories and insights about the island’s famous landmarks.

I recommend booking with Discovery Capri and selecting the 10:00am time slot, which you will be able to join immediately after your ferry arrives to the island. Doing so will allow you to have the whole afternoon to explore the island without interruption. Timing might feel tight, so be sure to look at the meeting spot for the boat tour ahead of time. If you’d rather arrive to Capri a little later, boat tours are also offered at 12:00pm and 2:00pm.

This two hour tour not only lets you admire Capri’s iconic grottoes and Faraglioni rock formations (including the famous ‘Tunnel of Love’) but also includes swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, a delicious Caprese limoncello toast, and snacks. If you want to experience Capri in the most memorable way, this is a must-do!

3. Take the Capri Funicular to Capri Town

After you’re back on land, it’s time to head up to Capri Town, the heart of the island. 

The easiest and most scenic way to get to Capri Town is by taking the funicular, located just a short walk from the ferry dock at Marina Grande. Tickets cost around €2 per person (one-way) and can be purchased at the nearby ticket booth. Be sure to buy enough tickets to get you up and back down if that’s what you plan to do.

Pro Tip

Buy Funicular Tickets Before Lining Up! Don’t make the mistake of going to the tram entrance before getting your ticket to ride it. Purchase your funicular tickets at the ticket booth across from the tram entrance before getting in line. And be sure to buy enough tickets to get you up and back down if that’s what you plan to do (i.e. two tickets per person in your group).

The ride itself is quick – less than five minutes – but offers stunning views of the coastline as you ascend.

Alternatively, if the funicular line is long (which is common during peak season) you can opt for a public bus instead, which costs about the same and follows a similar route. Another option is to take a taxi, which is pricier but more convenient. However you choose to get there, once you arrive in Capri Town, you’ll be greeted by charming piazzas, designer stores, and incredible views. Be sure to grab a lemon sorbet (sorbetto al limone) once you arrive to the top!

4. Visit the Augustus Gardens for Breathtaking Views

One of the most scenic spots in Capri is the Augustus Gardens (Giardini di Augusto), a beautifully landscaped terrace offering unparalleled panoramic views of the island. Originally owned by a German industrialist, Friedrich Alfred Krupp, in the early 20th century, the gardens were later donated to Capri and transformed into a public botanical garden filled with vibrant flowers and lush greenery.

Visiting the Augustus Gardens is a must, especially since the entry fee is only around €1–€3 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance on their website, so you can secure your spot before you arrive. The gardens are not very big, so it’s best to visit earlier in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. 

Once inside, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Faraglioni rock formations rising from the sea, as well as the famous Via Krupp, a dramatic series of hairpin turns carved into the cliffs below. Whether you’re snapping photos or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, this spot is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Capri.

5. Enjoy a Scenic Lunch in Capri Town

If you’re hungry after exploring the Augustus Gardens, take a break and enjoy lunch at one of the nearby restaurants with stunning views and delicious local cuisine. A great option is Ristorante Il Geranio, just a short walk from the gardens, where you can dine on fresh seafood and homemade pasta while overlooking the water from their scenic terrace. Their lemon-scented ravioli is a must-try!

For a more casual meal, Ristorante Villa Verde is a fantastic choice, offering authentic Caprese dishes and wood-fired pizzas in a charming garden setting. If you’re in the mood for something quick and easy, Bar Gelateria Buonocore is a local favorite, known for its freshly made sandwiches and famous warm, waffle-cone gelato – perfect for a light bite before continuing your adventure.

Pro Tip: Make a reservation! No matter where you choose to eat, I highly recommend making a reservation, especially during peak season when restaurants fill up quickly.

6. Hike Down to a Beautiful Beach

After lunch, take a scenic hike down to Marina Piccola, one of Capri’s most picturesque beach areas. This stunning cove, located on the southern side of the island, offers crystal-clear waters and incredible views of the Faraglioni rock formations.

To get there, follow the Via Krupp pathway, a series of dramatic switchbacks carved into the cliffs, leading down to the beach. Unfortunately, Via Krupp is often closed due to rockslides, but an alternative scenic walking route starts from Capri Town. Head toward Via Mulo, a well-marked pedestrian path that takes around 15–20 minutes to descend. The hike is moderate in difficulty, with some steep sections and many stone steps, so I highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.

Once you arrive, you’ll find both public and private beach clubs, where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. There are also a few beachfront restaurants where you can grab a drink or a snack while enjoying the views. Whether you take a dip in the refreshing waters or simply soak up the sun, this is the perfect spot to unwind before heading back.

7. Take the Ferry Back to Amalfi or Positano

As your day in Capri comes to an end, be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to make your way back to Marina Grande for the ferry. If you took the funicular up to Capri Town, allow extra time to wait in line for the return trip down – or consider taking a taxi if the line is too long.

Check the ferry schedule in advance and book your return ticket ahead of time to avoid any last-minute stress. It’s best to arrive at the pier at least 20–30 minutes before departure, especially during peak season when ferries can get crowded. We almost missed our ferry due to a long line and some confusion about which dock number we were departing from, so be sure to pay attention to that detail as well.

If you have time, end your day on a sweet note by grabbing a refreshing gelato or another lemon sorbet from one of the waterfront cafés before boarding. If you time it right, you might even catch a breathtaking sunset over the water as you cruise back to Amalfi or Positano, a perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day in Capri.

Alternative: Take a Private or Small-Group Boat Tour to Capri

If you want a more relaxed and exclusive way to experience Capri, consider booking a private or small-group boat tour from Amalfi, Positano, or even Sorrento. Instead of taking the ferry, you’ll get to cruise along the Amalfi Coast, stop for a swim in hidden coves, and enjoy a more personalized experience on the water. Private boat tours are a great option if you’re looking to:

• Avoid the crowded ferries and enjoy a more intimate experience.
• Stop for swims in stunning spots along the way, like the Li Galli islands or hidden grottoes.
• See Capri’s coastline from the water, including the famous Faraglioni rocks and the Love Arch.
• Have the option to disembark in Capri for a few hours or simply enjoy the island from the boat.

Many companies offer shared group tours (6–12 people) or private charters. Prices vary but expect to pay around €100–€200 per person for a group tour and €600+ for a private boat for the day. Tours usually include drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and sometimes even a limoncello toast!

If your idea of a perfect day includes relaxing on a boat, swimming in turquoise waters, and avoiding the crowds, this might be the best way to experience Capri. Plus, nothing beats watching the sunset over the Amalfi Coast as you sail back to your starting point!

Tips for a Perfect Capri Day Trip

To make the most of your day trip to Capri, here are a few essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Pack Smart – Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, and bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are a must for protection from the sun. A portable power bank will keep your phone charged for photos and navigation, and cash is handy for small entrance fees or snacks. 
• Book in Advance – Capri gets busy, especially in peak season! Reserve your ferry tickets, boat tours, and any major experiences ahead of time to avoid long lines, stress, and potential disappointment.
• Buy Funicular Tickets Before Lining Up – Don’t make the mistake of going to the tram entrance before getting your ticket to ride it. Purchase your funicular tickets at the ticket booth across from the tram entrance before getting in line.
• Allow Extra Time for the Funicular – The lines can get long, especially in the afternoon when many visitors are returning to the port. Line up extra early or consider taking a bus or taxi instead if you’re in a hurry for your ferry ride back to Amalfi or Positano.
• Check Ferry Dock Numbers – Capri’s marina can be hectic, so double-check which dock your ferry departs from to avoid any last-minute confusion. Arrive at the pier at least 20–30 minutes early. 
• Short on Time? Skip the Sit-Down Lunch! – If you’re trying to maximize your time on the island, grab snacks or a quick bite instead of sitting down for lunch. A lemon sorbet is a great refreshing Capri treat, and you can plan for a relaxing dinner back in Amalfi or Positano after your return ferry ride.

Final Thoughts

With a little planning, a day trip to Capri can be an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking coastal views, stunning grottoes, charming streets, and refreshing lemon sorbet treats! From sailing through the Faraglioni rocks to strolling through the Augustus Gardens and relaxing on a scenic beach, there are plenty of opportunities to make memories on this iconic island in Italy.

If you’re planning your own Capri adventure, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit! Have any questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’d love to help.

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