Last Updated on June 2, 2026 by Lauren Belzer Sanford
There is something almost surreal about arriving in Capri by boat. The Faraglioni rising out of the water as you approach, the pastel buildings stacked impossibly up the cliffside, the whole island looking exactly like a painting you’ve seen a thousand times but somehow more beautiful in person.
I first visited Capri on a family trip to Italy in 2019, on a day trip booked somewhat last-minute from our base in Sorrento. We didn’t have a full itinerary, just a boat, a willingness to wander, and the sense that a day here would be enough. It wasn’t, of course. It never is. But it was a very good day.
On our family trip to Italy in 2019, my younger sister urged us to set up a last minute boat ride to Capri on one of our open days. Since we didn’t choose to stay in Capri, it was special to still be able to experience this beautiful island on a quick day trip from our base in Sorrento.
Since it was a last-minute decision, we worked with our hotel concierge to set up the trip for the next day, complete with transportation to and from the docks. The next day, in the late morning, we set out to the boat for our day trip:
Set Sail
There seem to be many options for where to leave on a boat from the mainland to the island of Capri. Our boat left out of Massa Lubrense, a quaint coastal town located just a few kilometers from Sorrento. After boarding your boat, you set sail towards the island of Capri, with the Sorrentine Peninsula fading behind you.
The beauty of the open water, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast behind you, and Capri in front of you, is absolutely magical. Depending on the boat tour you hire for your trip, they might be able to make a stop to float on the water, have a sandwich and a beer on board, and even let you take a swim in the beautiful blue water!
If you’re not staying somewhere with a concierge, Capri boat tours on Viator are a reliable way to book in advance — both private and small-group options are available departing from Positano, Sorrento, and Massa Lubrense.
Arriving in Capri
As you approach the island, you’re greeted by the sight of the famous Faraglioni rock formations rising dramatically from the water.
Disembarking in Marina Grande, you’re immediately immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Capri. Narrow cobblestone streets wind their way through charming piazzas full of fragrant citrus trees, while chic boutiques and inviting cafes make you want to explore even further.
From the Marina Grande, it’s all uphill. There are 3 ways to get up to the main Piazzetta at the top of the mountain: the funicular, bus or taxi, or walking up the winding roads. In the heat of summer, I do not recommend the latter. We ended up hiring a taxi to take us up to the top and back down later in the day, but if you’re up for a unique experience, the funicular takes you over lemon groves, dropping you directly in the Piazzetta. In peak season, it can take a little while to get a taxi, so taking the funicular is typically your fastest option.
Exploring Capri
Once at the top, take your time exploring the streets of Capri…the shops, the delicious places to get gelato, a café to get a refreshing drink. Capri is a luxury destination, so make sure to check out some of hotels, too, to plot a future trip…you’re sure to want to come back!
You’ll notice that all over Italy, including Capri, you’ll find cats sunbathing, sitting on steps or in doorways, wandering around the streets. For us, it really added to the charm of this beautiful island!
See The Blue Grotto
Once you load back onto the boat, and if they haven’t taken you there already, make sure they take you to see the Blue Grotto. No visit to Capri would be complete without experiencing the legendary Blue Grotto! Unfortunately, the weather turned in late afternoon, and we were met with some wind, rain, and rough seas on our way back. Considering it’s extremely tight getting in and out of the Blue Grotto, it was too rough and unsafe for us to go in.
We were disappointed, but we will absolutely aim to see it on a future trip, as we’ll definitely be back to Capri!
If you want to make sure the Blue Grotto is on your itinerary, booking a dedicated Blue Grotto tour on Viator gives you a structured experience with a guide who knows the tides and timing.
Capri is entirely doable as a day trip, but it’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back with more time and a reservation at La Fontelina. If you’re based in Positano or Sorrento, a day on the water is one of the best things you can do on the Amalfi Coast. For a broader look at the coast, my Amalfi Coast hotel guide and Italy travel hub are good places to start planning.